Quick Answer
Acoustic neuroma causes unilateral hearing loss, tinnitus and dizziness — a benign tumor on the hearing nerve. Early treatment preserves function.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • NMC 8029 • Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center
Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a benign, slow-growing tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII) — the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, responsible for hearing and balance. Despite being 'benign' (non-cancerous), it can cause significant symptoms and compress adjacent structures.
Symptoms
Unilateral (one-sided) sensorineural hearing loss — often the first symptom, tinnitus (ringing) in the affected ear, dizziness/vertigo (less common than in other vestibular disorders), facial numbness/weakness (if tumor grows large and compresses facial nerve), headache (if large). Symptoms develop gradually over years.
Diagnosis
MRI with gadolinium contrast is the definitive test — shows the tumor on the internal auditory canal. Audiometry shows asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss. Brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAER) may be used for screening. CT is less sensitive.
Treatment
Observation: small tumors in older patients or those with minimal symptoms may be monitored with serial MRI. Stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife): precise radiation — effective for small-medium tumors, preserves facial nerve function. Microsurgical removal: for large tumors or those causing compression — hearing preservation possible for small tumors. Treatment choice depends on tumor size, patient age, symptoms and preferences.
When to seek professional evaluation
Unilateral hearing loss with tinnitus needs MRI — because acoustic neuroma must be excluded and early treatment preserves hearing.
This guide is educational and does not replace individual medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Answers reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
Vertigo is a subtype of dizziness; other forms include lightheadedness and imbalance, each suggesting different causes.
BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) causes brief spinning with head movement. Positional maneuvers performed by a healthcare provider are often effective.
Migraine is a neurological condition; headache is one feature. Associated symptoms and functional impact are important for diagnosis.
Aura refers to visual, sensory, or speech symptoms that precede the headache in some people. Both types are migraine; the presence of aura may influence management discussion.
More: All FAQs → · Ask Dr. Jitendra →
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References & Review
Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-11-10
- International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3).
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine — Neurology sections.
- American Academy of Neurology guidelines for selected conditions (where applicable).
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.