ACOUSTIC NEUROMA
can also be referred to as Vestibular Schwannoma
What is Acoustic Neuroma?
Acoustic Neuroma is a benign (noncancerous) tumor that develops on the nerve that leads from the inner ear to the brain. This nerve has two parts one controls balance and the other hearing. This is a fairly uncommom tumor and usually grows slowly. The cause of acoustic neuroma is an overgrowth of Schwann cells that cover the nerves.
Signs and Symptoms
~Hearing loss- usually gradual and on one side
~Ringing in the affected ear
~Unsteadiness- loss of balance
~Dizziness
~Facial numbess and weakness
Tests used to diagnose
MRI
A device that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to obtain pictures of the inside of the body.
Audiology
Tests your ability to hear sounds based on the loudness and the speed of sound wave vibrations.
ENG
Electronystagmography
Looks at eye movements to see how the two nerves in the brain are working.
Treatment
~Observe-if tumors are found early and are small, no treatment is necessary
~Focused radiation therapy to shink the tumor
~Surgery-removal of tumor
Patient Teaching
~Follow up appointments to monitor the size of the tumor
~Know the signs and symptoms of acoustic neuroma
~Caution about operating heavy machinery when experiencing dizziness associated with
tumor