Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)
An acoustic neuroma (also known as a vestibular schwannoma) is a benign tumor that originates on the eighth cranial nerve, which connects the inner ear with the brain. This nerve, called the vestibulocochlear nerve, is involved in transmitting sound and sending balance information from the inner ear to the brain. Acoustic neuromas are typically slow growing over a period of years. Although these tumors do not invade the brain, they commonly cause hearing loss and can result in neurological deficits. Acoustic neuromas can also be life threatening if they become large enough to compress the brain stem or cerebellum.