7 Acoustic Neuroma FAQs Answered by a Neurosurgeon

An acoustic neuroma is a condition that affects the nerve that leads the inner ear to the brain. Although the term does refer to a tumor, in most cases, acoustic neuromas are noncancerous and slow-growing.

7 Common questions about acoustic neuromas

Outlined below are some of the most commonly asked questions about acoustic neuromas:

1. Are there different types of acoustic neuromas?

There are unilateral and bilateral acoustic neuromas. Unilateral only affects one ear, while bilateral affects both. The most common is unilateral.

2. How is a diagnosis made?

A diagnosis is made by running tests, such as an MRI with contrast and a CT scan. Additionally, hearing tests are also usually performed as loss of hearing is quite common. In addition to these tests, the neurosurgeon and/or neurologist will perform a physical evaluation to determine if an acoustic neuroma is present.

3. How are acoustic neuromas treated?

In some cases, a neurosurgeon will recommend the removal of an acoustic neuroma. This is common when the tumor grows and is accessible without harming surrounding tissue. In other cases, it may be recommended to undergo radiation, which will stop the growth or slow it drastically.

Low-level acoustic neuromas may not require any treatment. Instead, constant monitoring may be recommended to ensure that growth does not take place. In the event that rapid growth is discovered, the appropriate treatment measures will be taken.

4. What are the symptoms and signs?

The most common symptoms include loss of hearing, dizziness, balance issues, and ringing in the affected ear. If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is advised to visit a neurosurgeon right away.

It is also worth noting that most acoustic neuromas may not even produce any symptoms. Because of the slow rate at which these types of tumors grow, it is pretty common that individuals will not notice it for a long time.

5. What causes acoustic neuromas to develop?

Currently, there is no set answer as to why an acoustic neuroma develops. In some cases, it is hereditary and in others, there is no apparent cause.

6. Is an acoustic neuroma curable?

With the treatment options that are listed above, most acoustic neuromas are curable. However, what is important to note is that there is often permanent damage done to the inner ear. Certain functions, such as hearing, may be lost forever. It is not currently possible to reverse hearing loss. Other symptoms like balance problems can, however, improve after treatment is administered.

7. Can an acoustic neuroma result in death?

Rarely. Acoustic neuromas are one of the few brain tumors that rarely lead to death due to the slow rate at which they grow. Of course, it is possible in severe cases, however, it is likely that other factors will play a role too.

The bottom line

Individuals that notice any of the warning signs or symptoms of an acoustic neuroma should immediately consult with a neurosurgeon. The consultation process will involve a thorough evaluation to determine whether or not the condition is present.

Get more information here: https://arizonaneurosurgeon.com or call Randall Porter, M.D. at (602) 603-8951

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