Acoustic Neuromas: The Silent Threat to Hearing and Balance
Acoustic neuromas, also known as vestibular schwannomas, are benign tumors that affect the balance and hearing nerves. They usually cause unilateral hearing loss or an imbalance in hearing between the two ears. Other common symptoms include constant ringing in the ear (tinnitus), balance problems, and numbness or tingling in the face.
Symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma
This condition typically causes unilateral hearing loss or an uneven hearing impairment between the two ears. Other frequent symptoms include constant ear ringing (tinnitus), balance problems, and facial numbness or tingling.
Causes of Acoustic Neuroma
The exact cause of acoustic neuromas is not fully understood. However, they are believed to result from a genetic abnormality. In patients with the rare genetic disorder neurofibromatosis type 2, a gene mutation has been linked to the development of these tumors.
Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuroma
To diagnose acoustic neuroma, doctors take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hearing loss, hearing tests (audiogram), tympanometry, and imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans are used.
Treatment Options
Observation (Watchful Waiting):
- This approach is suitable for older patients, those with small tumors, or those with other serious health conditions.
- Regular MRI scans are required to monitor tumor growth.
Stereotactic Radiation:
- This non-invasive treatment method is used for small to medium-sized tumors.
- It is often preferred for elderly or non-surgical candidates.
- Side effects may include facial nerve issues, numbness, or hearing loss.
Surgical Intervention:
- The surgical approach depends on the size of the tumor and the patient’s hearing status.
- Commonly used surgical techniques include Middle Fossa, Retrosigmoid, and Translabyrinthine approaches.
Potential Surgical Complications:
Surgical intervention may result in temporary or permanent facial nerve weakness, hearing loss, dizziness, and cerebrospinal fluid leakage.
