Symptoms vary with the size and location of the tumor. Acoustic neuromas are relatively uncommon as a whole, but they are among the most common tumors of the head. They affect approximately 1 out of 100,000 people. The results of physical examination are often unremarkable, except for the symptoms listed. Surgical removal of the tumor is the only known treatment for acoustic neuroma.
Acoustic neuroma is benign and noncancerous.
It does not spread to other body systems, but it may continue to grow and may press on structures within the skull. If a tumor is removed when it is very small, hearing may be preserved. A large tumor may be safely removed, but the surgery may result in paralysis of some facial muscles or in total deafness of the affected ear. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if hearing loss occurs or worsens.