What is acoustic neuroma?
Acoustic neuroma is a rare tumor. It's not cancer. It grows slowly from an overproduction of Schwann cells and is also called a vestibular schwannoma. The tumor then presses on the hearing and balance nerves in the inner ear. Schwann cells normally wrap around and support nerve fibers. A large tumor can press on the facial nerve, which controls facial muscles and sensation. Or it can press on brain structures. There are 2 types of acoustic neuromas: Unilateral acoustic neuromas. This type affects only one ear. It's the most common type of acoustic neuroma. This tumor may develop at any age. It most often happens between ages 30 and 60. Acoustic neuroma may be the result of nerve damage caused by environmental factors. The only certain environmental risk factor is past radiation to the head. It's unclear if prolonged exposure to loud noises is a cause of acoustic neuromas. Bilateral acoustic neuromas. This type affects both ears and is inherited. It's caused by a genetic problem called neurofibromatosis-2 (NF2).