An Acoustic Neuroma (or Vestibular Schwannoma) is a benign encapsulated tumour which arises from the 8th cranial nerve. The 8th cranial nerve is actually two separate nerves, one associated with balance and the other with hearing and it is here that this tumour usually arises from either one of these nerves in the bony internal auditory canal between the inner ear and brain. The 7th nerve which services facial movement also passes through this canal as do important blood vessels. These tumours are usually slow growing but as they expand they begin to press on the hearing, balance, and other nerves. They can then extend into the area at the base of the brain and press on the vital structures of the brain, which can be life threatening.
Website: http://www.anaa.org.au/what-is-an-acoustic-neuroma/
