About Schwannomas
Knowledge is key when you or a family member is facing a tumor diagnosis, and our team will cover the basics of schwannomas with you so you can be informed as you move forward.
A schwannoma is a type of nerve tumor of the nerve sheath. It's the most common type of benign peripheral nerve tumor in adults. It can occur anywhere in your body, at any age. Schwannomas typically come from a single bundle (fascicle) within the main nerve and displaces the rest of the nerve. When a schwannoma grows larger, more fascicles are affected, making removal more difficult. In general, schwannomas grow slowly.
You may notice a painless lump if you develop a schwannoma in an arm or leg. They're rarely cancerous, but they can lead to nerve damage and loss of muscle control. Learn more about schwannoma symptoms and risk factors below, and see your doctor if you have any unusual lumps or numbness.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Schwannomas
Signs and symptoms of peripheral nerve tumors vary depending on the location of the tumors and which tissues are affected. They include:
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Pain, tingling or numbness
- Swelling or a lump under your skin
- Weakness or loss of function in the affected area
It's not clear why most peripheral nerve tumors develop. Some are linked to known inherited syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis (types 1 and 2) and schwannomatosis. Others may be caused by a malfunctioning gene or triggered by injury or surgery.
Cancer Specialists Who Specialize in You
When you or someone you love is facing cancer, we put our medical knowledge and concerned hearts to work, supporting you with everything we’ve got.
Count on our world-class physicians, surgeons, nurses, social workers and Nurse Navigators to guide your care with lifesaving diagnostic technology, proven cancer treatments and an unwavering commitment to your whole-person health.
Find Us in Your Community
Across the nation, each of our locations offering cancer treatment contributes to the strength of the AdventHealth Cancer Institute network. Explore your options for care close to home with the guidance of our dedicated team. We’ll help you find the right fit, so you’re in the best setting to get the care you need.