Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of acoustic neuroma develop from a tumor pressing on cranial nerves.

As the tumor grows, it may be more likely to cause signs and symptoms, although tumor size doesn't always determine effects. It's possible for a small tumor to cause significant signs and symptoms. In many cases, however, a small tumor of less than about six-tenths of an inch — about 1.5 centimeters (cm) — may cause no signs or symptoms. Some tumors grow as large as about 2.5 inches (more than 6 cm).

Signs and symptoms may include:

* Hearing loss, usually gradual — although in some cases sudden — and occurring on only one side or more pronounced on one side
* Ringing (tinnitus) in the affected ear
* Dizziness (vertigo)
* Loss of balance
* Facial numbness and weakness

The tumor also may press on the brainstem. In rare cases, an acoustic neuroma may grow large enough to compress the brainstem and be life-threatening.


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