Acoustic Neuroma - What Are Different Treatment Options?

Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that occurs in the primary nerve between the brain and the ear. The tumor progresses very slowly and can influence your balance and hearing. In certain cases, if the tumor becomes very large, then it may also impair vital functions of the body.

Symptoms-

The symptoms of acoustic neuroma tend to develop when the tumor starts to press on the nerve and its adjoining branches. The symptoms of this disorder are –

1. You may experience hearing loss on one side which might worsen gradually.

2. You may have problems in balancing yourself.

3. A continuous ringing sound in the ears.

4. Persistent dizziness.

5. If the tumor is large and presses on the nearby nerves, then you may experience numbness of the facial muscles.

6. In some cases, it may impair the vital functions of the body.

This disorder is caused by a malfunctioning gene. There is no documented reason as to why the gene malfunctions.

The treatment options for this disorder are –

1. Constant Monitoring: These tumors tend to grow very slowly but might spurt in some cases. In order to prevent damage to your body, they need to be monitored on a regular basis. Imaging tests are recommended on a periodic basis to determine the growth of the tumor.

2. Radiosurgery: Stereotactic radiosurgery is done to treat acoustic neuroma that is small in size. In this surgery, radiation is directed at the tumor without creating any incision. It is done to limit the growth of the tumor and preserve your hearing.

Surgery: The tumor can be removed by using surgical procedures. It involves administering general anesthesia, followed by removing the tumor through an incision on the skull or the inner ear. Surgery is used to remove the tumor and preserve your hearing abilities.