Acoustic Neuroma FAQs

Cancer Treatment Center in Phoenix, AZ

 

A Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, we strive to be a comprehensive resource to all those fighting cancer in the greater Phoenix, AZ area. As a leading provider of radiation therapy in Phoenix, we operate six state-of-the-art cancer centers equipped with advanced cancer-fighting technology. But our mission is to go beyond simply providing treatment – and if you have questions about acoustic neuromas, we can help.

 

Common Questions About Acoustic Neuroma

 

What is acoustic neuroma?

An acoustic neuroma is a tumor that forms on the eighth cranial nerve, which connects the brain with the inner ear. While they are tumors, acoustic neuromas are benign, or noncancerous, growths, which means they won’t grow and spread as aggressively as cancerous tumors do. That said, they can still cause problems. Without treatment, acoustic neuromas can compress the eighth nerve, causing symptoms ranging from tinnitus to dizziness.

Are acoustic neuromas heritable?

It’s possible to inherit a condition called neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2), which can lead to acoustic neuroma formation, but acoustic neuromas aren’t generally hereditary. Roughly 95% of acoustic neuromas develop without any family history.

Are acoustic neuromas common?

Acoustic neuroma is relatively rare. Roughly 5,000 people are diagnosed with acoustic neuroma each year, meaning about 3.5 out of every 100,000 people develop the condition. As MRI technology allows us to detect more acoustic neuromas, these rates are rising, but acoustic neuroma is a relatively uncommon condition.

What are the causes of acoustic neuroma?

Scientists still don’t understand the exact causes of acoustic neuromas, but research points to a number of possible causes. Defects in tumor suppressor genes may cause some people to develop acoustic neuromas, and long-term exposure to loud noise may be another contributing factor. Exposure of the head and neck to radiation may also play a role, and some studies even suggest that cell phones are a factor.

How is acoustic neuroma treated?

Treatment options vary depending on the specifics of the case, but some of the most common treatments are surgery and radiation therapy treatment. Surgery involves removing all or part of the tumor, reducing pressure on the eighth nerve and relieving symptoms. Radiation therapy involves using high-dose radiation to kill tumor cells and shrink the tumor, eventually relieving symptoms. Your doctor will talk with you to determine the ideal treatment method in your unique case.

 

Schedule a Consultation with Your Phoenix Cancer Center

 

If you’re suffering from an acoustic neuroma, don’t put off seeking treatment. At Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, we can provide world-class radiation therapy treatment to help eliminate your acoustic neuroma without surgery – and we have six convenient facilities throughout Phoenix. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you overcome acoustic neuroma.

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