What Is Acoustic Neuroma?

An acoustic neuroma is a benign, usually slow-growing tumor that develops from certain nerves in the inner ear. As an acoustic neuroma develops, it presses against the nerves related to balance and hearing, which can result in:
 
  • One-sided or high-tone hearing loss
  • Ringing in the ear
  • Dizziness
  • Problems with balance.
     
There are certain risk factors that may increase the chances of developing this tumor, including a person's age and a family history of neurofibromatosis type 2.
 
Acoustic neuromas, like other forms of tumors, can be treated with surgery or radiation therapy.
 
(Click ##Acoustic Neuroma## for a more in-depth explanation of what an acoustic neuroma is, including detailed information about the different forms of acoustic neuroma, other potential symptoms, and ways to detect the tumor.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD