Acoustic neuromas are benign growths that develop within the ear. While the condition can sometimes accompany a specific genetic disorder, most people experience these growths spontaneously, which is known as sporadic acoustic neuroma.
Issues with hearing are the most obvious effect of acoustic neuromas. In many cases, hearing loss will affect only one ear. As the neuroma continues to grow, hearing loss will become progressively worse over time. Other symptoms include:
Without proper treatment, this condition can also lead to more serious complications should the neuroma grow large enough that it compresses the brain stem.
It is not clear what causes sporadic forms of this condition. When it comes to diagnosis, doctors typically use a combination of hearing and speech tests, as well as diagnostic imaging to detect the neuroma.
As for treatment, it typically depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases usually call for monitoring and observation, as neuromas often grow at a very slow rate. If symptoms are severe, doctors can also recommend surgery. While surgery cannot reverse any hearing issues that have already occurred, it can prevent further hearing loss and more serious complications. Radiation is another common treatment option. Radiation therapy cannot remove the tumour, but it can prevent it from getting any bigger.