Acoustic neuroma
What is an acoustic neuroma?
An acoustic neuroma is a benign (non-malignant) tumour
growing in the internal auditory canal. It can often
expand into the cranial cavity towards the brainstem. It usually
originates from the vestibular nerve, which supplies the organ of
balance.
What are the symptoms of an acoustic neuroma?
Symptoms are caused by mechanical compression of adjacent nerves
and the brainstem. This is why the most common symptom is hearing
loss. Other common symptoms are ringing in the ear (tinnitus) and
vertigo. Very large tumours may cause many other neurological
problems due to mechanical pressure on the brainstem.
How is acoustic neuroma diagnosed?
Diagnosis can be acheived by having a CT and/or MRI scan and also through hearing tests.
What is the treatment for acoustic neuroma?
As an alternative to conventional surgery, Gamma
Knife surgery can be used to treat tumours of a volume up
to 10cc (3cm across). Tumours causing symptoms due to brainstem
compression should be candidates for conventional surgery.
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| Scan showing an acoustic neuroma
pre-surgery. The white circle indicates the tumour |
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Scan showing the reduced size of
the tumour 2 years post-surgery |
Further information on acoustic neuromas
Please contact the Gamma Knife Centre directly or go to the
British Acoustic Neuroma
Association.