Acoustic Neuroma
Educational information. Individual clinical review of this presentation by Dr. Ehsan is not yet documented. It does not replace personal medical evaluation.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Read the original source
MedlinePlus data edition September 26, 2026. Imported September 27, 2026. These dates do not indicate a new clinical review of the article.
An acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that develops on the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. The tumor usually grows slowly. As it grows, it presses against the hearing and balance nerves. At first, you may have no symptoms or mild symptoms. They can include:
- Loss of hearing on one side
- Ringing in ears
- Dizziness and balance problems
The tumor can also eventually cause numbness or paralysis of the face. If it grows large enough, it can press against the brain, becoming life-threatening.
Acoustic neuroma can be difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms are similar to those of middle ear problems. Ear exams, hearing tests, and scans can show if you have it.
If the tumor stays small, you may only need to have it checked regularly. If you do need treatment, surgery and radiation are options.
If the tumors affect both hearing nerves, it is often because of a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis.
NIH: National Institute on Deafness and Communication Disorders
Symptoms, tests and care options
Further reading selected by MedlinePlus. Links open the original organizations’ websites.
- Acoustic Neuroma Treatment Options - Overview · Acoustic Neuroma Association
- Brain MRI (Head MRI) · Radiological Society of North America
- Diagnosing Acoustic Neuroma · Acoustic Neuroma Association
- Head CT (Computed Tomography, CAT Scan) · Radiological Society of North America
- Symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma · Acoustic Neuroma Association
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For a life-threatening emergency, call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number.
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