Acoustic Neuroma
Acoustic neuroma is a condition that affects the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for balance and hearing. This benign tumor can grow slowly over time and put pressure on the structures around it, including the brainstem. If left untreated, an acoustic neuroma can lead to severe complications like loss of balance.
There are two types of acoustic neuroma, namely vestibular schwannoma and meningioma. Both types are slow-growing tumors that develop in the area around the ear. While they are similar in some ways, they differ in how they affect the body.
Vestibular schwannomas grow on the Schwann cells, which wrap around nerve fibers. These tumors are more likely to cause hearing loss than meningiomas. Meningiomas form on the membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord. These tumors are more likely to cause seizures than vestibular schwannomas.
Symptoms of acoustic neuroma include vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. The symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Small tumors may not cause any symptoms. However, larger tumors can press on vital structures and affect their function.
Acoustic neuroma can be diagnosed through a variety of tests, including MRI, CT scan, and auditory brainstem response. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, or observation.
