What is Acoustic Neuroma?

Acoustic neuroma (AN) is a benign (noncancerous) tumor located on the

vestibulocochlear nerve.

Acoustic NeuromaOuter Ear

Middle Ear

Vestibulocochlear Nerve

Inner Ear

Vestibulocochlear NerveThe vestibulocochlear nerve is made up of the

cochlear nerve and the vestibular nerve. It is the 8th cranial nerve (CN VIII). It connects the inner ear organs to the brainstem and is responsible

for relaying auditory and balance information to the brain.

What are the symptoms of AN?

• Unilateral hearing loss that is typically more pronounced in the high frequencies.

• Tinnitus• Feeling of fullness in the ear• Vertigo• Dizziness or imbalance• Facial weakness or numbness• Headache

90% of AN cases are first identified by a reduction in hearing in one ear.

If an acoustic neuroma grows large enough it can press on the surrounding nerves, brainstem, and cerebellum

and become life-threatening.

What is the cause of AN?

• There is no known cause of acoustic neuroma.

• Exposure to high-dose radiation is the only known environmental risk factor for AN.

• Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type II have a malfunctioning gene on chromosome 22. These patients can develop acoustic neuromas on both sides of the head.

How is acoustic neuroma diagnosed?

• Case History• Audiologic

evaluation by an Audiologist

• MRI is the “gold standard” for diagnosis of AN

• CT scan with contrast in cases where an MRI is not possible

How is acoustic neuroma treated?

• Observation (watch and wait) for small tumors

• Radiation• Microsurgical removal

Treatment will be determined by the size of the tumor, age and medical status of

the patient, hearing status, other symptoms, and patient preference.

Will an acoustic neuroma cause lasting problems?

An acoustic neuroma can cause permanent hearing loss in the affected

ear, as well as tinnitus. Patients can work closely with an Audiologist to

determine need for appropriate hearing technology.

Hearing options for those with AN

• In some cases, an AN can significantly affect hearing and speech discrimination abilities in the affected ear. Hearing technology options may include:– Conventional hearing

aid. – CROS or BICROS

hearing aid. – Bone conduction

device.

Resources:

https://www.anausa.org/

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acoustic-neuroma/basics/definition/con-20023851