Acoustic neuromas

What are acoustic neuromas and why are there often delays in diagnosing them?

Acoustic neuromas are benign (non-cancerous) tumours that grow on the vestibular nerve and can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems. Unfortunately, these tumours can be difficult to diagnose and early symptoms can be missed which in the worst cases can lead to long-term complications.

The consequences of not spotting an acoustic neuroma early

A delay in diagnosing an acoustic neuroma can have long-term consequences for patients. If the tumour continues to grow it can lead to more severe hearing loss, dizziness, and even facial paralysis. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the tumour, and delays in diagnosis can increase the complexity of the procedure or require more extensive surgery.

Exceptionally large acoustic neuromas can lead to a life-threatening build-up of fluid in the brain, known as hydrocephalus, however it is rare for the tumours to reach that stage as most grow very slowly or not at all.

What are the symptoms of an acoustic neuroma?

An acoustic neuroma often causes non-specific symptoms at first, with many people initially reporting symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo which can be caused by a number of more common illnesses.  As a result the condition is often overlooked.

As the condition is rare there is unfortunately a lack of awareness among primary care providers, with general practitioners often not familiar with the symptoms or risk factors of the condition.  It is therefore not uncommon for the condition to be misdiagnosed as a more common ailment.

What treatment is available for acoustic neuromas?

An acoustic neuroma is typically monitored through regular MRI scans and further treatment will only take place if the scans show the tumour growing in size.  If treatment is required, small tumours can be treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (a precise beam of radiation) to prevent further growth, or brain surgery if required.

Even with treatment an acoustic neuroma can have a life-changing impact on a person’s ability to work, communicate and drive and therefore it is important to be diagnosed with the condition quickly.

If you or a family member have been impacted by the delayed diagnosis of an acoustic neuroma then we may be able to help secure compensation.  We offer no win no fee agreements on the vast majority of our clinical negligence and personal injury cases.