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Acoustic neuroma (or Vestibular Schwannoma) is a benign primary intracranial tumor of the myelin forming cells called "Schwann cells" (Schwannoma) of the 8th cranial nerve --- also known as the acoustic nerve, (or more properly the vestibulocochlear nerve). Approximately 3000 cases are diagnosed each year in the United States with an incidence of about 1 in 100,000. Incidence peaks in the fifth and sixth decades and both sexes are affected equally.
Pathogenesis
Acoustic neuromas may occur sporadically, or in some cases occur as part of von Recklinhausen neurofibromatosis, in which case it may take on one of two forms.
- In Neurofibromatosis type I, a schwannoma may sporadically involve the 8th nerve, usually in adult life, but may involve any other cranial nerve or the spinal root. Bilateral acoustic neuromas are rare in this type.
- In Neurofibromatosis type II, bilateral acoustic neuromas are the hallmark and typically present before the age of 21. These tumors tend to involve the entire extend of the nerve and show a strong autosomal dominant inheritance. Incidence is about 5 to 10%.
The usual tumor in the adult presents as a solitary tumor, originating in the nerve. It usually arises from the vestibular portion of the 8th nerve, just within the internal auditory canal. As the tumor grows, it usually extends into the posterior fossa to occupy the angle between the cerebellum and the pons (cerebellopontine angle). Because of its position, it may also compress the 5th, 7th, and less often, the 9th and 10th cranial nerves. Later, it may compress the pons and lateral medulla, causing obstruction of the CSF and increased intracranial pressure.
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Acoustic Neuroma Archive - Comprehensive informational site by and for acoustic neuroma patients with advice, news, stories, directories and links.
Meta Description: [ Information web site for Acoustic Neuroma patients, dedicated to providing them with information, advice, and stories to help evaluate their treatment options and to make an informed decision ]
Acoustic Neuroma - Outline details the epidemiology, pathology and clinical features of the condition.
Acoustic Neuroma - An introduction to the condition with treatment options offered by the University of California, San Diego Division of Neurosurgery.
Acoustic Neuroma - Background information and details of treatment options provided by the Oregon Health and Science University. Also features links to related resources.
Acoustic Neuroma - Article describing causes and treatment expectations provided by the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
Acoustic Neuroma - The Basic Facts - Find information on the cause, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the condition. Hosted by the University of Minnesota, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.
Acoustic Neuroma Association - Nonprofit organization providing information and support to patients.
Meta Description: [ Acoustic Neuroma Association - Vestibular Schwannoma Support Education and Research ]
Acoustic Neuroma Association NSW Inc. - Australian organization dedicated to providing information and support for people affected by the condition. Features information on treatment, meetings, contacts and links.
Meta Description: [ The Acoustic Neuroma Association NSW Inc is a patient organised information and support group. ]
Acoustic Neuroma Association of Canada - Information including treatment options and post - operative issues. Membership details and message board.
Acoustic Neuroma Journey - Provides information for acoustic neuroma patients to decide which treatment option is the best; wait and watch, surgery, or radiation. Includes links, staging, diagram, mailing list, and surveys.
Meta Description: [ Acoustic Neuroma World. Information by acoustic neuroma patients, for patients, explaining how to choose the right treatment ]
Brian's Acoustic Neuroma UK Pages - Brian Lloyd describes personal experience of acoustic neuroma, life after his operation, impact, facts and figures, disability and benefits issues, hints and tips, lipreading and communication, glossary and links.
British Acoustic Neuroma Association - General information, including treatment options, news, plus details of local groups.
General Practice Notebook - Acoustic neuroma - Clinically-oriented information.
The Department of Neurological Surgery: University of Pittsburgh. - Acoustic neuromas (vestibular schwannomas) treatment options discussed including surgery, gamma knife radiosurgery and fractionated radiotherapy. Statistics, links and reference list provided.
Meta Description: [ Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannomas) treatment options including surgery, gamma knife radiosurgery and fractionated radiotherapy. Statistics, links and reference list provided. ]
Treatment Options for Acoustic Neuromas - Technological advances have significantly improved early diagnosis and expanded treatment options for acoustic neuroma, says P. Ashley Wackym, MD, John C. Koss Professor and Chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences. Find an article from HealthLink MCW.
What Is An Acoustic Neuroma? - Patient-oriented information on this disorder, including tinnitus, speech discrimination and facial nerve preservation.
Meta Description: [ The Johns Hopkins Radiosurgery Group includes radiosurgery specialists committed to providing the highest quality radiosurgery treatment for each patient by utilizing the unique expertise, state of the art technologies, and extensive resources available at Johns Hopkins. Find information about br... ]
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