Schwannoma

Also known as vestibular schwannoma, neurilemmoma and acoustic neuroma.

Characteristics

• Arises from cells that form a protective sheath around nerve fibers
• Typically grows around the eighth cranial nerve, but can be found around other cranial or spinal nerves

Symptoms

• Reduced hearing in the ear on the side of the tumor when eighth cranial nerve is involved Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• Balance problems
• Deficits depend on the nerve that is affected

Treatment

Surgery and radiotherapy are the most common forms of treatment. If the tumor is not completely removed, recurrence is likely.