An acoustic neuroma, sometimes also called a vestibular schwannoma or
neurolemmoma, is a benign (non-cancerous) growth or tumor that is located on the
eight cranial nerve (acoustic nerve) that leads from the inner ear to the brain.
The problem with acoustic neuromas is that as they expand in size and grow
larger, they can push against the brain. While the tumor does not actually
invade the brain, the pressure of the tumor can displace brain tissue.
The exact cause of acoustic neuromas is unknown and most occur
spontaneously. Although they can occur as early as age 7, most people with
acoustic neuromas are diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 60. The incidence of
acoustic neuromas is slightly higher among women (60%) than men
(40%).
Thanks to modern imagining tests, the diagnosis of acoustic
neuromas can now be made earlier when the majority of tumors are smaller. Due to
advances in microsurgery, including intraoperative monitoring of facial and
cochlear function, the risks of facial paralysis and hearing loss have been
greatly reduced. Today, many tumors can be treated effectively with both surgery
and radiation therapy.
The outcomes for small acoustic neuromas are
generally better than for larger tumors. After treatment, patients with large
tumors (larger than 2.5 cm) are likely to experience significant hearing loss
and the preservation of hearing may not be possible. An acoustic neuroma that
continues to grow and is not treated or removed will ultimately result in
brainstem compression, hydrocephalus, and brain herniation.
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