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Schwannoma

Also known as vestibular schwannoma and acoustic neuroma (see 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.