Tumors called acoustic neuromas develop along the nerve connecting the brain with the inner ear. They are a type of tumor called a schwannoma. Most acoustic neuromas arise for reasons that are not well understood. Like all schwannomas, acoustic neuromas do not metastasize (spread to other parts of the body). However, acoustic neuromas may require intervention as a result of their effect on the auditory nerves, the inner ear, and other tissue. Symptoms of an acoustic neuroma may include difficulty hearing, ringing in the ears, headache, dizziness, and loss of balance.
There are several options for acoustic neuroma treatment: observation, stereotactic radiosurgery, and various surgical approaches. Because the area is complex, these tumors vary, a patient’s goals vary, and each method has its advantages and drawbacks, treatment plans for acoustic neuromas are carefully personalized to each individual patient.
Acoustic neuromas are also known as acoustic neurinomas or vestibular schwannomas.
Dr. Michael Sisti shares what he knows about acoustic neuromas and how he treats them.