Acoustic Neuroma

Question 1

Another name for acoustic neuroma

Answer 1

vestibular schwannoma

Question 2

Pathophysiology of acoustic neuromas

Answer 2

• benign, slow growing tumour of schwann cells
• vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) of inner ear
• 40-60 years

Question 3

Condition associated with bilateral acoustic neuromas

Answer 3

neurofibromatosis type 2

Question 4

Clinical features of acoustic neuroma

Answer 4

CNVIII (vestibulocochlear)
- sensorineural hearing loss
- tinnitus
- vertigo + loss of balance

CNVII (facial)
- facial palsy

CNV (trochlear)
- absent corneal reflex

Increased intracranial pressure
- nausea + vomiting
- headache

Question 5

Investigating acoustic neuroma

Answer 5

1. audiometry
2. MRI of cerebellopontine angle

Question 6

Managing acoustic neuroma

Answer 6

• observation
• surgery (micro-resection)
• stereotatic radiotherapy