Schwannomas

Vestibular schwannoma or acoustic neurinoma, is a rare, non-cancerous tumor, with a slow growth rate. It originates from the vestibular nerve, which travels from the brainstem to the middle ear.

Its main inconvenience comes from the fact that the vestibular nerve is related to balance and hearing, making its disfunction associated with disequilibrium, tinnitus, loss of hearing and facial paralysis, due to its proximity to the facial nerve.

A prompt diagnosis and follow up may prevent late diagnosis of symptoms related to brainstem compression and hydrocephalus, secondary to tumor growth.

Schwannoma treatment is usually surgical, with close follow up. In some instances, radiotherapy may be applied.