3mm acoustic neuroma

I have a 3mm AN and have known about it for 2 years.  In the two years since it was found during an MRI for continuous earache it has not grown.  My problem is the continuous pain, I have been put on painkillers but this does not help.  Could a 3mm AN be removed by surgery.

[Neuro Forum]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with your doctor.

Without the ability to examine you and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of your symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

Acoustic neuromas, also called vestibular schwannomas, are benign tumors but can cause problems if they press on surrounding structures. It is important before treatment is initiated for your acoustic neuroma that it be deemed to be causing your symptoms; with the size of your neuroma, symptoms would be unlikely except if it were in a critical area. In general, these types of masses grow at a rate of around 2mm a year (a slow growth), but some do not grow at all, as in your case; this is reassuring.

In general, if treatment is deemed to be necessary, surgery is one option, and there are different surgical approaches depending on where the tumor is located. Sometimes, a neurosurgeon and ENT surgeon do the procedure together. While I can not specifically comment on whether or not you would be a candidate for surgery, in general surgery is reserved for larger schwannomas than yours. Risks of surgery include hearing loss or facial paralysis depending on where the tumor is located. For patients with small schwannomas who are not candidates for surgery (due to the location of the schwannomas or otherwise), a type of radiation called stereotactic radiosurgery is an option as well, as are other radiation options. Radiation also carries with it some risks, but these are relatively low, and response rates are in general good, with low risk of recurrence.

Discussion of your treatment options with your neurologist/neurosurgeon is recommended.

Thank you for using the forum I hope you find this information useful good luck.