what is acoustic neuroma?
TRANSCRIPT
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
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