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Acoustic Neuroma
Alternative Names Acoustic
neurilemoma, Acoustic neurinoma, Auditory tumor, Vestibular
schwannoma
Acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous
tumor that develops on the nerve that connects the
ear to the brain. The tumor usually grows slowly. As
it grows, it presses against the hearing and balance
nerves. At first, you may have no symptoms or mild
symptoms. They can include
- Loss of hearing on one side
- Ringing in ears
- Dizziness and balance problems
Acoustic neuroma can be difficult to
diagnose, because the symptoms are similar to those
of middle ear problems. Ear exams, hearing tests and
scans can show if you have it.
If the tumor stays small, you may only need to have
it checked regularly. If you do need treatment, surgery
and radiation are options. If the tumors affect both
hearing nerves, it is often because of a genetic disorder
called neurofibromatosis. The tumor can also
eventually cause numbness or paralysis of the face.
If it grows large enough, it can press against the brain,
becoming life-threatening.
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