Causes and Diagnoses

Causes and Diagnoses of Acoustic Neuroma

The cause of an acoustic neuroma depends on its type.

• The cause of unilateral acoustic neuromas is typically unknown:
• Radiation to the neck or face as a child
• Bilateral acoustic neuromas are almost always occur in Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2), a genetic condition caused by mutations in the NF2 gene.

Diagnosing Acoustic Neuromas

An acoustic neuroma may go undiagnosed for a long time because they typically grow slowly.

Your care team will use tests to diagnose. These may include:

• Computed tomography (CT) scan: This test combines X-ray and computer technology to make detailed cross-sectional images.
• Physical: Your physician will perform a comprehensive neurological examination, assessing your ear, balance system, and function of other cranial nerves.
• Hearing test: A diagnostic hearing test, also known as an audiogram, can help determine if you are losing hearing.
• Vestibular testing: A set of tests using video goggles to assess balance function and determine the best plan for improving balance dysfunction.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: This test creates detailed images using a large magnet, a computer and radiofrequencies. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, MRI does not use radiation. This is the gold standard diagnosing an acoustic neuroma.