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Questions and Answers
What is the primary concern regarding an acoustic neuroma if not diagnosed early?
What is the primary concern regarding an acoustic neuroma if not diagnosed early?
- It is likely to become malignant over time.
- It may lead to benign growths of other nerves.
- It can compress the trigeminal and facial nerves. (correct)
- It typically results in bilateral hearing loss.
Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with acoustic neuroma?
Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with acoustic neuroma?
- Unilateral tinnitus
- Bilateral progressive hearing loss (correct)
- Mild, intermittent vertigo
- Reduced touch sensation in the posterior ear canal
What is the potential outcome of surgery for tumors larger than 3 cm?
What is the potential outcome of surgery for tumors larger than 3 cm?
- Increased risk of facial nerve regeneration
- Permanent hearing loss and facial paralysis (correct)
- Improvement in vestibular function
- Complete restoration of hearing
What type of therapy may help preserve hearing and vestibular function for small acoustic neuromas?
What type of therapy may help preserve hearing and vestibular function for small acoustic neuromas?
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What should a patient be taught to report following surgery for acoustic neuroma?
What should a patient be taught to report following surgery for acoustic neuroma?
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Study Notes
Acoustic Neuroma Overview
- Benign, unilateral tumor located at the entry of the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) into the internal auditory canal.
- Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent compression of the trigeminal and facial nerves, as well as arteries.
Symptoms
- Typically manifests in individuals aged 40 to 60.
- Initial symptoms arise from compression and destruction of CN VIII.
- Common symptoms include:
- Unilateral and progressive sensorineural hearing loss.
- Reduced touch sensation in the posterior ear canal.
- Unilateral tinnitus (ringing in the ear).
- Mild and intermittent vertigo.
Diagnosis
- Neurologic and audiometric tests are essential for diagnosis.
- MRI is the preferred imaging modality for confirming the presence of the tumor.
Treatment Options
- Radiation Therapy: Effective for small tumors; preserves hearing and vestibular function.
- Surgical Treatment: Considered effective for all tumor sizes. Risks increase for larger tumors:
- Tumors >3 cm may result in permanent hearing loss and facial paralysis.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery: A method to slow tumor growth and protect the facial nerve.
Post-Surgery Care
- Regular follow-up is necessary to monitor hearing and the potential for tumor recurrence.
- Patients should be educated to report any clear, colorless nasal discharge, as it may indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak and heightened infection risk.
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