Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwanoma)
Acoustic neuromas are benign tumors of the eighth cranial nerve in the brain. These tumors usually cause hearing loss, ringing in the ears or balance problems. The Gamma Knife can be used to stop the tumor's growth. Without treatment, acoustic tumors will eventually cause deafness in most patients. Treatment has resulted in elimination of further tumor growth or reduction in tumor size in more than 90 percent of patients. Useful hearing can be preserved in about 35 percent of Gamma Knife cases but progressive hearing loss can occur after treatment. Permanent numbness or weakness of the face is very rare and occurs in fewer than two percent of cases. Periodic MRI scans are obtained (usually at one year intervals) to monitor patient progress.
Acoustic Neuroma Links
Links to resources about acoustic neuroma / vestibular schwannoma and other skull base lesions. For more information about how you can contribute to the cure for brain tumors click here.