Definition:
Neuroma is a term generally used to describe any swelling or inflammation of a nerve, but more specifically used in reference to a tumor (usually benign) growing in the nerve cells.
Diagnosis:
Neuroma can be diagnosed through imaging studies such as computerized tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) which can reveal an abnormal mass or growths in the brain. In the context of acoustic neuroma, the following diagnostic tests may also prove helpful: hearing test (audiometry); electronystagmography (ENG); and brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER).
Treatment:
Treatment for neuroma focuses on stopping the tumor from growing or altogether removing the tumor. Brain surgery to remove the neuroma is a preferred option, with consideration given to the extent of nerve damage that may result. A range of radiation therapies may also be recommended, including gamma-knife radiosurgery, a procedure that allows a doctor to deliver radiation directly to the tumor without an incision. In most cases, this is a better option than brain surgery, which can inadvertently cause damage to surrounding tissue.
Symptoms and Signs:
There are several types of neuroma, or benign tumors from the nervous system. Symptoms depend on the specific type of neuroma involved. Acoustic neuroma, the most common type of this tumor, may exhibit the following symptoms: hearing loss typically on only one side or more pronounced in one side; a ringing sensation (tinnitus) in the affected ear; vertigo or dizziness; difficulty maintaining balance; as well as facial numbness and tingling.
Causes:
The exact cause of neuroma remains unknown.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
