User:Mr. Ibrahem/Vestibular schwannoma

Vestibular schwannoma (VS), also known as acoustic neuroma, is a benign tumor that develops from the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) that passes from the inner ear to the brain. Symptoms may include hearing loss, ringing in the ear, and dizziness; though some may have no symptoms. Other symptoms may include facial numbness and facial weakness. Typically only one side is affected. Complications may include brainstem or cerebellum compression.

When only one side is involved the cause is believed to be random chance. When both sides are involved it is generally related to neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). NF2 may be either inherited from a persons parents or occur during early development. The underlying mechanism is believed to be due to loss of the function of a gene on chromosome 22 which results in Schwann cells growing in an uncontrolled manner. Diagnosis is suspected based on symptoms and confirmed by MRI.

There are three forms of treatment watchful waiting, surgery, and radiation therapy. Vestibular schwannomas are rare, affecting about 1 per 100,000 people per year. Onset is most commonly in those 30 to 60 years old. Women are more commonly affected than men. The condition was first clearly described in 1777 by Eduard Sandifort.