Detection & Treatment Options | Phoenix CyberKnife Radiation & Oncology Center

Acoustic Neuroma – Detection & Treatment Options

Overview
Types & Stages
Detection & Treatment Options
FAQs

Detecting and Treating Acoustic Neuroma

Before Phoenix acoustic neuroma treatment can begin, the doctors at Phoenix CyberKnife and Radiation Oncology Center must first be aware of what type of vestibular schwannoma they are dealing with. It’s difficult to treat the problem unless you know there is a problem in the first place. If you have not had the neuroma diagnosed yet, the first step is detection. The tumor may sit on the main nerve for years without exhibiting symptoms. Patients with a family history of the heritable type of condition might be able to tell doctors to be aware of the possibility. Others may not know until symptoms appear.

Symptoms to Be Aware Of

Common symptoms that tend to appear in the early stages of acoustic neuroma include tinnitus, vertigo, and gradual hearing loss. However, there are also less common signs to watch out for:

  • Dizziness
  • Pain in an ear
  • Headaches
  • Weak feeling or pain in the face
  • Numbness in the face
  • Difficulty understanding what people are saying

It is important to get in to see a qualified health care professional if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

Options for Treatment

Although an acoustic neuroma is benign, you still might want to have it treated or managed. There are three general options patients have to choose from:

  • Observation: If the tumor is small or it is decided that it would cause more harm than good to remove the tumor, doctors might just choose to observe its progress.
  • Surgery: This would remove the tumor, but it also runs the risk of damaging the nerves. Because of the risk involved, it might only be used if necessary.
  • Stereotactic Radio Surgery (Radiation): This treatment may be used to shrink the tumor down.

Contact Us

Our Phoenix cancer center has a variety of options and skilled professionals at our patients’ disposal. To learn more about diagnosing and treating acoustic neuroma, contact us at 602-441-2845.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Our top priority is the health and safety of our patients. Treatments will continue as our staff is taking extra precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all patients. We are working closely with local and national health authorities to stay informed on all important developments.

Contact our office prior to your appointment.

Phoenix Cyberknife Radiation Oncology is dedicated to the health and safety of our employees, patients, and their families. With the recent spread of COVID-19 and the height of cold and flu season, it is important to be mindful of not only yourself but others around you as well. These viruses are spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, contact with contaminated surfaces and close personal contact. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: runny nose, dry cough, low-grade fevers or shortness of breath; please contact our office prior to your appointment for further instruction

Click here for more information for the Arizona Department of Health Services.