Synonyms

Neurolemmoma; Vestibular schwannoma

Definition

A benign tumor of the Schwann cells occurring near the cerebellopontine angle of the brain stem. Typically, it arises from the vestibulocochlear or eighth cranial nerve, which connects the brain to the inner ear. It is commonly associated with neurofibromatosis type 2 and often occurs bilaterally. Tumor growth is usually slow and may result in some hearing loss or deafness, tinnitus, vertigo, and vestibular dysfunction. Most acoustic neuromas are diagnosed in patients between the ages 30 and 60. Etiology is possibly related to gene malfunction on chromosome 22. Treatment options include radiosurgery and microsurgical removal (Figs. 1 and 2).

Acoustic Neuroma, Fig. 1
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Example of acoustic neuroma

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Acoustic Neuroma, Fig. 2
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Example of acoustic neuroma

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Cross-References