Acoustic Neuroma Treatment & Symptom
An acoustic neuroma is a benign , noncancerous, often slow-growing tumor of the nerve that connects the ear to the brain (8th cranial or auditory) nerve. Other names for this type of tumour include 'vestibular schwannoma' and 'neurinoma'. It is understood that an acoustic neuroma begins in the cells that line one of the cranial nerves. For unknown reasons, these cells (known as 'schwann cells') multiply out of control and form a tumour. The signs and symptoms of acoustic neuroma, including hearing loss, develop from the tumor pressing on the hearing portion of the eighth nerve. The tumor also may press on the brainstem. In rare cases, an acoustic neuroma may grow large enough to compress the brainstem and be life-threatening. Most likely to develop in people between ages 30 and 60, acoustic neuromas are rare in children. For some people, the tumor remains so small it never causes problems. You may need no treatment other than regular monitoring by your doctor. If you need treatment, you may have options, including radiosurgery and surgical removal.
An acoustic neuroma is a rare, benign growth. It affects the vestibulo-cochlear nerve. During its course from the inner ear to the brain, the nerve of balance runs together with the nerve of hearing and the nerve that supplies the facial muscles in a bony canal known as the internal auditory canal. The tumor first fills this canal and then extends out into the area of the brain. It is when the tumor grows large enough to compress the brain that it causes serious complications. Approximately 3000 cases are diagnosed each year in the United States with an incidence of about 1 in 100,000. Incidence peaks in the fifth and sixth decades and both sexes are affected equally.
Causes of Acoustic Neuroma
Common Causes of Acoustic Neuroma :
- The exact cause of acoustic neuroma is unknown.
- History of the disease neurofibromatosis type 2 (for bilateral neuromas only, which are very rare) .
Symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma
Some common Symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma :
- Difficulties with balance.
- In some cases, facial numbness.
- Impaired hearing in the affected ear.
- Ringing in ears.
- Loss of hearing on one side.
- Loss of balance.
- Dizziness (vertigo).
- Headaches and pain in the ear.
Treatment of Acoustic Neuroma
- Microsurgery techniques are used to remove the tumour. However, side effects can include loss of hearing, and facial nerve damage.
- A non-invasive device that directs gamma radiation at the tumour. Side effects may also be experienced with this procedure.
- Indicated treatments for acoustic neuroma include surgical removal and radiotherapy .
|
