Schwannomas are benign tumors that arise from Schwann cells, which are involved in nerve cell functioning. They can affect cranial nerves, causing symptoms such as hearing loss, facial numbness, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment involves surgical removal, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
A schwannoma, also called a neurilemmoma, is a slow-growing, benign mass or tumor arising from Schwann cells. Schwann cells are components of the myelin sheaths, which cover the axons or branches of nerve cells. They are involved in the proper functioning of nerve cells, their development and regeneration, and in the conduction of nerve impulses throughout the body. The cause of schwannoma is still unknown, although some factors, such as genetic predisposition, can increase the risk of developing the tumor. For example, individuals who have a family history of neurofibromatosis or von Recklinghausen disease have a higher risk of developing this condition.
Cranial nerves in the brain are often affected by schwannomas. Of the 12 cranial nerves, the most commonly affected include the vestibular nerves, which are found in the ears for auditory sensation; the trigeminal nerve, which is involved in facial sensation and motor functions such as chewing and swallowing; and the glossopharyngeal nerve, which supplies taste sensation to the tongue. When a schwannoma develops in one of the cranial nerves, loss of function usually follows, although sometimes the tumor can present without symptoms and is only seen incidentally during a computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan done for other doctors. reasons.
Different symptoms are generally experienced by patients with cranial nerve schwannomas, often depending on which nerve is involved. As the tumor grows larger, it can compress the nerve and other adjacent structures in the brain. In a vestibular schwannoma or acoustic neuroma, the patient may experience ringing in the ears, numbness in the face, gradual hearing loss, and loss of balance. A glossopharyngeal schwannoma can manifest with hoarseness and difficulty swallowing. Trigeminal schwannomas can present with facial pain and double vision.
In addition to the cranial nerves, a schwannoma can also develop in the nerves of the legs, arms and lower back. Sometimes pain is felt as the tumor gradually grows in size. Tinel’s shock, described as an electric shock, can also be felt when the affected area is touched.
A biopsy is usually needed to diagnose the tumor and rule out malignant schwannoma. Treatment includes removing the tumor by surgically separating it from the nerve, ideally without causing damage to the nerve’s function. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are also incorporated to shrink the tumor or hinder its further growth. Tumors, however, can recur in the same place after surgical removal if they are not completely removed.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
