Angioma on Optical nerve

Hi,
My sister who is 40 started having problem reading and distinguishing small ojects. She had an MRI that showed a tumor in her brain on her optical nerve. The doctr called it 'angioma' and told her that it was benine. It as big as a golf ball. She needs to have a surgery.
I would like to know if it is really benine, what are the risks and issues and her chances to lead a normal after this surgery.
She is in Vegas and I would like to have the list of certified doctors in this area who can drive a successful surgery.
I am really worried and would appreciate any information.
Regards,
Nabila.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-PW]

Unfortunateli I cannot give you specific information on the treatment and prognosis for your sisters case without knowing a diagnosis/seeing the scan

There are a number of tumors that can affect the optic nerve. The most common ones would be a meningioma of the optic nerve sheath or an optic glioma. Both are relatively benign tumors, that is, they do not spread rapidly or spread to distant areas. However, in teh brain where space is at a premium, any mass can cause problems. Surgery can be difficult in this area, and depeding on the involvement of teh nerve fibers, could lead to blindness in that eye. Many times, we do not operate on optic tumors but observe them over time, and assess visual function formally by an ophthlamologist. Optic tumors are sometimes asscoateid with a condition called neurofibromatosis, which can be checked for. This condition presdiosposes to this and other tumors.

I personally do not know any doctors in the Las Vegas area, but a neurologist or neuro-oncologist at a big center may be the best choice. The brain tumor institute at the Cleveland Clinic is also very experienced in diagnosing and treating similar cases.

Good luck