Facial nerve neuromas presenting as acoustic tumors

S. O. McMenomey, M. E. Glasscock, L. B. Minor, C. G. Jackson, B. Strasnick

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

55 Scopus citations

Abstract

Facial nerve tumors can present as masses in the internal auditory canal or cerebellopontine angle and may mimic an acoustic neuroma. These tumors can occur in any segment of the nerve from the brain stem to the neuromuscular junction. Prior to the advent of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium, facial nerve tumors were often difficult to diagnose. Even with these modalities it may be difficult to distinguish preoperatively between an acoustic neuroma and a facial schwannoma. Particular signs and symptoms associated with facial nerve tumors (in the absence of a motor deficit) include taste disturbances, spasms, and a facial tic. These symptoms, combined with modern radiologic studies, should allow for more accurate diagnosis, patient counseling, and treatment. This report presents a series of 32 facial nerve tumors diagnosed and treated at The Otology Group from 1975 to 1992. Of these lesions, 12 (38%) were thought to be acoustic neuromas. Eighteen tumors were correctly identified preoperatively as facial nerve tumors. Two facial nerve tumors were found incidentally.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)307-312
Number of pages6
JournalAmerican Journal of Otology
Volume15
Issue number3
StatePublished - Jan 1 1994

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Facial nerve neuromas presenting as acoustic tumors'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this