The Care You Deserve for Acoustic Neuroma
Acoustic neuromas are uncommon and, in many cases, complex. That’s why you need access to experienced doctors who are not only highly skilled, but also know that compassionate care can go a long way to help you heal.
Our team will work with you to outline specific acoustic neuroma treatments that address your physical, mental and spiritual needs. From diagnosis to treatment and beyond, we’ll be at your side, guiding your journey.
Turn to Us for Answers — and Hope
Learning that you or a loved one may have a brain tumor is sure to raise concerns and questions. We’re here to give you all the answers and guidance you need to take charge of your health as you move forward.
- Understanding Acoustic Neuromas
-
Acoustic neuromas affect approximately 1 in every 100,000 people in the U.S., making it a rare type of brain tumor. Slow-growing and benign (non-cancerous), acoustic neuroma brain tumors grow on your vestibulocochlear nerve, affecting your hearing and balance.
- Symptoms of an Acoustic Neuroma Brain Tumor
-
Acoustic neuroma symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen as the tumor increases in size.
Common symptoms include:
- Balance difficulties
- Confusion
- Clumsiness
- Facial numbness or tingling
- Feelings of fullness in the affected ear
- Gradual hearing loss
- Headaches
- Unsteadiness
- Vertigo
- Acoustic Neuroma Diagnosis
-
If your doctor thinks you might have an acoustic neuroma, one or more tests may help confirm your diagnosis. First, they may perform a hearing test to identify hearing loss. Based on the results of this test, your doctor may recommend imaging tests.
Imaging for an acoustic neuroma may include:
- Audiograms and Computed Tomography (CT) Scans can reliably identify the presence of an acoustic neuroma if magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not available.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine if a tumor is present, and if so, pinpoint the acoustic neuroma location
- Computed tomography (CT) scans to identify the presence of an acoustic neuroma if an MRI is not an option for you
- Routine Auditory Tests can determine if you’ve experienced any hearing loss. If the test indicates a loss, your doctor will order additional tests to determine the cause.
- How Is an Acoustic Neuroma Treated?
-
Your doctor will discuss the best options for your acoustic neuroma treatment, which can vary based on the size and location of the tumor, and your overall health.
Your doctor will discuss which treatment is best for you, and your acoustic neuroma treatment may include:
- Gamma Knife ® Radiosurgery
- Monitoring over time
- Surgery
Once diagnosed, patients commonly ask: What is the best treatment for acoustic neuroma? The answer can be different for each person we see. We consider the size and location of your tumor, as well as your overall health, when determining which treatment is best for you. Acoustic neuroma treatment may include:
Observation
In some cases, no immediate treatment is needed. We’ll monitor your tumor over time and recommend treatment only if it affects your quality of life.
Radiation Therapy
Various types of outpatient radiation therapy may be used to target your tumor and prevent it from growing.
Surgery
Surgery to partially or entirely remove your tumor may effectively treat an acoustic neuroma. We specialize in minimally invasive technology that uses lasers to remove your tumor or decrease its size.
Follow-Up Care
Sometimes, an acoustic neuroma can recur (come back) after treatment. So, we provide follow-up care to ensure you have the best possible outcome. We also recommend that you stay in close contact with your primary care provider throughout your recovery.
- Specialized Acoustic Neuroma Care for Every Diagnosis
-
When you’re facing a brain tumor diagnosis, you want a team you can trust by your side. That’s what you’ll find at AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute. Our entire team is dedicated to healing your body, mind and spirit.
Acoustic Neuroma Support Group
If you have been diagnosed with acoustic neuroma and have questions, wish to explore treatment options and coping strategies with other patients and clinical experts, please join us for upcoming acoustic neuroma support group meetings provided several times a year free of charge. Pre- and post-treatment acoustic neuroma patients, family members, caregivers, friends and interested persons are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact the Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) at Call770-205-8211 or email volunteers@ANAUSA.org or visit www.ANAUSA.org.
High-Quality Care Lives Here
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Our Unique Brain Tumor Program
The Brain Tumor Program at AdventHealth Brain and Spine Institute offers a comprehensive team, advanced treatments and resources.
High-Quality Care Lives Here
From your initial visit to your ongoing recovery, our care teams will be at your side. They’ll answer your questions, offer guidance and provide a shoulder to lean on, so you can feel confident throughout your journey.