Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Subject: Re: Schwannoma
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area:
Posted by CCF Neuro MD on June 29, 1997 at 18:23:38:
In Reply to: Schwannoma posted by Al on June 19, 1997 at 18:43:19:


Two years ago I was diagnosed with Bells Palsey on the right side of my face. The diagnosis was based ono results received from an MRI by my neurologist. He advised that the type of Bells I had would remain with me for life. During the last two year period I had recurring flareups which included loss of muscular control on my right face, inability to close right eye and some hearing loss. Three weeks ago I had an unusually bad flare up and was unable to close my right eye for a number of days. One morning I awoke with very blurred vision in my right eye, like someone coated my glasses with vaseline. My family doctor felt the eye was attempting to protect itself and prescribed eye drops. This helped. He also requested that I have another MRI to see what changes, if any, had taken place since the last MRI, 2 years before. My Opthalmologist examined the eye and everything was fine. The results of the MRI suggested a schwannoma. In doing some research through medical libraries on the internet I found that schwannoma is another term for neurofibromatosis or tumor. I have seen the MRI and can see the white mass which was circled by the doctor. I would like to know what causes the flareups of the Bells and if indeed it really is Bells considering the tumor. I will be going to a neurosurgeon next week and would like some information on the subject and what options I have. Can a tumor cause Bells? Is it wise to wait six months and examine it again? Apparently it's not very big. I thank you for your help.


Hi, Al,
Bell's palsy is a common disease of one of the 12 cranial nerves, number 7, the facial nerve. It is usually caused by viral agents. The most common one is herpes virus. The facial nerve palsy can be caused by lots of other conditions, such as infections and tumors.
Schwonnomas are commonly found outside the brain and along the peripheral nerves. However, a small percentage of them may be located in side the brain, specifically at the cranial nerve number 8. When this happens, they are called verstibular schwannomas or acoustic neurinomas. They may also cause facial palsy. As you understand, they may be a component of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). But they are usually on both sides. In addition, NF2 would also have some other features, such as peripheral neurofibromas, meningiomas and gliomas. Without seeing your MRI scan, it would be difficult to say whether surgery is the best option for your condition at this point. However, you are always welcome to our Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation where the most advanced technology such as stereotactic radiosurgery and Gamma knife is readily available. Please call toll free at 888/NOGK-CCF (664-5223) or locally at (216) 445-NOGK for an appointment or more information.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult you primary physician for the diagnosis and treatment of your specific medical conditions.
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