Acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous growth that develops on the eighth cranial nerve, or sometimes known as vestibulocochlear nerve. Acoustic neuroma connects the inner ear with the brain and has two different parts. One involved in transmitting sound; the other helps send balance information from the inner ear to the brain. Acoustic Neuroma is more commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 30 and 60. Experts believed a malfunction of chromosome 22 gene is to blame. In a few amount of people, inherited condition known as neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) can also triggers the tumor growth.
Some patients may require surgery to remove the tumor, or use Gamma Knife radio surgery, to deliver radiation that stops the tumor from growing without harming the surrounding tissues. However treatment for small or slow-growing tumors that cause few or no symptoms may only require monitoring from our team. Our physician can determine the best treatment for you.
Symptoms:
– Gradual loss of hearing in one ear and/or ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
– Feeling of fullness in ear
– Sudden hearing loss
– Problems with balance
– Vertigo
– Facial numbness with tingling, may be reoccurring or come and go
– Facial weakness
– Taste changes
– Difficulty swallowing and hoarseness
– Headaches
– Clumsiness or unsteadiness
– Confusion
Diagnosing Acoustic Neuroma
Vestibulocochlear nerve is located in the ear and is responsible for hearing and balance. Ear exam and hearing test will be required. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans are also able to identify acoustic neuromas.
How do I know if Gamma Knife Treatment is right for me?
Complete the contact form or call Gamma Knife Centre Indonesia (+62-21-5460055 extension 2421/2422, +6281295100080) to set up consultation and receive more information.
Further Readings
– Acoustic Neuroma (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
– Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma) and Neurofibromatosis (National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders)
– What Is an Acoustic Neuroma (Acoustic Neuroma Association)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
– Computed Tomography (CT) – Head (Radiological Society of North America, American College of Radiology)
– Identifying the Acoustic Neuroma (Acoustic Neuroma Association)
– Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) — Head (Radiological Society of North America, American College of Radiology)
– Symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma (Acoustic Neuroma Association)
Treatment and Therapies
– Acoustic Neuroma (International Radiosurgery Support Association)
– Gamma-Knife Radiosurgery (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
– Post Treatment of Acoustic Neuroma (Acoustic Neuroma Association)
– Selecting a Medical Professional (Acoustic Neuroma Association)
– Treatment Options Summary (Acoustic Neuroma Association)
