Causes and Diagnoses

Causes and Diagnoses of Acoustic Neuroma

The cause of an acoustic neuroma depends on the type of neuroma.

• Unilateral acoustic neuromas may be caused by:
• Continual exposure to loud noise, such as music or machinery
• Radiation to the neck or face as a child
• Bilateral acoustic neuromas are almost always caused by the genetic condition neurofibromatosis-2 (NF2).

Diagnosing acoustic neuromas

An acoustic neuroma may go undiagnosed for a long time, since its symptoms are similar to other middle ear and inner ear conditions. As symptoms progress, diagnostic tests may include:

• Ear exam: Your physician will examine your outer ear canal and eardrum with an otoscope, a tool with a light and magnifying glass.
• Hearing test: A traditional hearing test is used to determine if you are experiencing hearing loss.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: This test combines X-ray and computer technology to produce detailed cross-sectional images.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: This test creates detailed images using a large magnet, a computer and radiofrequencies. Unlike computed tomography (CT or CAT) scans or X-rays, MRI does not use radiation.