The topic Eighth Cranial Nerve Schwannoma you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Vestibulocochlear Nerve Schwannoma.

Quick Summary:

• Schwannomas are mostly benign tumors that arise from the Schwann cells around the nerves; these tumors are nerve sheath tumors. The tumors can occur in the peripheral nerves (arms and legs) and the spinal nerves; intracranial tumors occur in the head
• Schwannomas involving the central nervous system (CNS) are classified as grade I tumors of the cranial and paraspinal nerves, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO grade I brain tumors are the most benign of the brain tumors that are slow-growing and are not known to infiltrate into surrounding tissues. They offer a very high chance for surgery to be curative, and thus, have the best prognosis amongst all brain tumors; long-term survivals are usually noted
• It is reported that about 8% of all intracranial tumors are schwannomas, and a majority involve the cranial nerve VIII or the vestibulocochlear nerve. Cranial nerves are 12 pairs of sensory and/or motor nerves having specific functions that connect parts of the head and neck region to the brain. Ten of these pairs originate from the brainstem; two pairs originate from the cerebrum
• When a schwannoma involves the vestibulocochlear nerve, it is termed Vestibulocochlear Nerve Schwannoma. The vestibulocochlear nerve splits into two main branches near the region of the brainstem. The two divisions are known as:
  • Cochlear nerve: The cochlear nerve branch travels to the inner ear and is responsible for the perception of sound
  • Vestibular nerve: The vestibular nerve branch travels to the vestibular system of the inner ear and is responsible for balance
• Schwannomas arising along the cochlear nerve branch are called cochlear schwannomas, while those arising along the vestibular nerve branch are called vestibular schwannomas. The former are extremely rare tumors, whereas the latter are common and form a vast majority of cranial schwannomas. In general, tumors originating in the vestibule, cochlea, and semicircular canals of the inner ear are collectively known as intralabyrinthine schwannomas (or ILSs)
• Currently, no causative factors have been identified for Vestibulocochlear Nerve Schwannoma, although certain genetic, environmental, and occupational factors, have been implicated. The risk factors for the tumor include the presence of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and a positive family history of schwannoma
• Vestibulocochlear Nerve Schwannomas may be symptomatic or asymptomatic. In some, these tumors can cause a host of symptoms including sensorineural hearing loss, ringing within the ears, and vertigo. Usually the tumors are unilateral; but, if they are associated with NF2 or schwannomatosis, they can be bilateral (seen on both sides of the head). However, this is a very uncommon occurrence
• In some individuals, the healthcare provider may undertake a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized and slow-growing tumors. In a majority of cases, a complete excision by surgery can be curative and the prognosis of Vestibulocochlear Nerve Schwannoma is typically excellent. Nevertheless, follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are necessary and recommended

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