Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma

Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma

Article
Ear, Nose, & Throat (ENT)
Brain & Nerve
+4
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAOct 27, 2020

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • Cranial Nerve V Schwannoma
  • Fifth Cranial Nerve Schwannoma
  • Intracranial Trigeminal Schwannoma

What is Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Schwannomas are mostly benign tumors that arise from the Schwann cells around the nerves; these tumors are nerve sheath tumors. 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
  • A majority of schwannomas involve the cranial nerve, particularly the cranial nerve VIII (in nearly 90% of the cases); and, when it involves the eighth cranial nerve, it is commonly known as the vestibular schwannoma. 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
  • Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas are uncommon schwannomas that involve the cranial nerve V (CN V), or the trigeminal nerve. It is a highly complex bundle of nerves with both sensory and motor function; it is responsible for varied facial sensations and jaw muscle actions such as biting and chewing
  • The trigeminal nerve is also the largest of the cranial nerves. It has three main branches, namely the ophthalmic nerve, maxillary nerve, and mandibular nerve; all three branches out from a region known as the Gasser ganglion or semilunar ganglion. A majority of the schwannomas reportedly originate from the Gasser ganglion region
  • The ophthalmic (sensory) nerve covers the upper facial region including the scalp. The maxillary (sensory) nerve is responsible for the mid facial region covering the cheeks and nose. The mandibular (sensory and motor) nerve communicates sensory information from the lower parts of the face including the ears and chin; it also controls the jaw muscles
  • Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas are described as unusual tumors that can grow to large sizes, especially when the parapharyngeal space is involved. The tumors can grow silently and undisturbed, resulting in a delayed diagnosis. Large tumors are difficult to remove and present more pre- and post- treatment complications that may not completely resolve following surgery; there is also a higher recurrence rate with large tumors
  • Currently, no causative factors have been identified for Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma, although certain genetic, environmental, and occupational factors have been implicated in schwannoma development. Extremely rarely, the risk factors for the tumor may include the presence of neurofibromatosis type 2, which is a genetic disorder
  • Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas may cause headaches and facial numbness (most common symptoms), mild to severe facial pain, jaw deviation, and difficulty in mastication (chewing). In some cases, the involvement of multiple cranial nerves is noted. Some individuals may also experience facial paralysis and hearing loss
  • In rare cases, schwannomas are known to undergo malignant transformations; malignant Trigeminal Schwannomas have higher WHO grades and poorer prognosis. It is difficult to distinguish between benign and malignant tumors through radiological studies. A tumor biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis
  • In some rare cases, the healthcare provider may undertake a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized and slow-growing benign tumors. In many cases, a complete excision by surgery or treatment using Gamma Knife radiosurgery can be curative. The prognosis of a benign Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma is typically excellent with appropriate management and follow-up care

Classification of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas: Trigeminal Schwannomas have been classified in numerous ways, to help the healthcare provider understand the signs and symptoms based on tumor locations, and to assist in better management (consider suitable surgical approach) of these intracranial tumors.

  • The first classification, proposed by Wanibuchi and others, is based upon the anatomical origin of the tumor. According to this classification, there are four types:
    • Peripheral Trigeminal Schwannoma: The tumors arise from either division 1 (ophthalmic or V1), division 2 (maxillary or V2), or division 3 (mandibular or V3) in the extracranial location
    • Meckel cave Trigeminal Schwannoma: They have origin in the Gasser ganglion in the Meckel's cave cavity
    • Posterior fossa root Trigeminal Schwannoma: As the name suggests, these tumors originate in the posterior fossa, in the trigeminal cistern of the pons (that is part of the brainstem)
    • Dumbbell Trigeminal Schwannoma: As the name suggests, these tumors are dumbbell-shaped and include two types - the cavernous root subtype and the cavernous peripheral subtype
  • The second classification is based upon the development patterns of the tumor. The tumors are also confined to one compartment. According to this classification, there are three tumor types:
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type M: In type M, the tumors originate from the Gasser ganglion and peripheral branches of the nerves present in the cavernous sinus walls
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type P: In type P, the tumors originate from the trigeminal roots of the nerve
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type E: In type E, the tumors are present in extracranial locations

Note: If the tumors are located in multiple compartments, they are further described as ME type, MP type, or MPE type depending on the anatomical location, usually based on radiological studies.

  • The latest and most frequently used classification, described by Jefferson (in 1995), has four tumor types:
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type A: Type A tumors are located in the middle fossa of the cranium
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type B: A majority of Type B tumors are present in the posterior fossa
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type C: Type C tumors are dumbbell-shaped and are located in the middle fossa and posterior fossa of the brain
    • Trigeminal Schwannoma, Type D: Type D tumors are also dumbbell-shaped, but show extracranial extensions

Who gets Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas are observed in adults and account for between 0.07 to 0.36% of all intracranial tumors
  • The age range of incidence is about 20 to 75 years, but most cases are noted in the 30-60 years’ age group. These tumors are very rare in children
  • After vestibular schwannomas, Trigeminal Schwannomas are the second most common intracranial nerve schwannomas constituting 0.8-5% to 0.8-8% of them, based on several case reports
  • Both males and females are affected, although a slight female preference is noted
  • There is no known geographical bias and racial/ethnic preference observed

What are the Risk Factors for Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma? (Predisposing Factors)

Based on the few available reports, a vast majority of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas are sporadic in nature and no well-established predisposing factors are observed.

  • The presence of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is noted in some cases of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma. NF2 is a genetic condition characterized by the formation of non-cancerous tumors affecting the nervous system
  • In general, for schwannomas the risk factors may include:
    • A family history of the tumor
    • Frequent exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation
  • Benign schwannomas are known to undergo malignant transformations to form malignant schwannoma of the trigeminal nerve

Note: Malignant Trigeminal Schwannomas are not observed in the background of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also called von Recklinghausen disease, unlike some other cases of malignant schwannomas.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma? (Etiology)

The exact cause and mechanism of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma formation is unknown; they are believed to be the result of sporadic mutations. This implies that they do not have a preceding family history of the condition. It is researched that certain genetic, environmental, and occupational factors may contribute towards the development of cranial nerve schwannomas.

Overall, the following factors have been identified as playing a role in schwannoma development:

  • Abnormalities in chromosome 22
  • Multiple schwannomas are known to occur in a background of genetic disorders, such as NF2 and Gorlin-Koutlas syndrome, or a positive family history
  • The tumor is believed to be caused by the overproduction of Schwann cells that wrap around the nerve

In general, it is known that tumors form when normal, healthy cells begin transforming into abnormal cells - these cancer cells grow and divide uncontrollably (and lose their ability to die), resulting in the formation of a mass or a tumor.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma?

The signs and symptoms of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma may differ from one individual to another. It may be mild or severe, depending on several factors. The onset and speed of progression of the tumor can vary. In many individuals, tumors that grow slowly and remain asymptomatic, are only diagnosed during certain radiological imaging studies of the head and neck region, which are performed for unrelated health conditions.

  • The tumors are slow-growing and solitary; they may be present as a cystic or solid mass, or a combination of both. Since, the tumors grow very slowly, they are reportedly difficult to diagnose during the initial periods
  • These schwannomas may rarely grow to large sizes, particularly when the lateral pharyngeal space is involved (in the head and neck region). It is reported that most tumors are fairly large in size during the time of diagnosis
  • Injury to the trigeminal nerve by the tumor can result in trigeminal sensory deficit, causing reduced capacity of physical (skin) sensation in various parts of the face (in nearly 90% cases). When the related motor functions are affected, it can cause difficulty in eating and chewing (in about 40% of the individuals) including mild to severe lockjaw
  • In a vast majority of cases, where solitary tumors are noted, only one side of the face is involved. The symptoms are also dependent upon what nerve divisions (such as ophthalmic, maxillary, and mandibular) of the trigeminal nerve are involved

It is reported that the signs and symptoms of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma are somewhat similar to those observed with trochlear nerve schwannomas. Also, the tumor is observed to involve other adjacent cranial nerves, including cranial nerves III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, and IX. Depending on the nerve(s) involved, a set of associated signs and symptoms may be noted.

Some other commonly observed signs and symptoms of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma, which depend on the specific location and trigeminal nerve branch that is affected include:

  • Headaches (in about 75% of the cases), double vision, and changes in one’s hearing quality are the initial symptoms noted
  • Trigeminal nerve dysfunction is seen in 70-75% of the cases. It can cause facial pain, burning sensation, and numbness and tingling sensation
  • Trigeminal neuralgia causing chronic facial pain, which can be brief, but severe to excruciating. Even performing simple tasks like brushing teeth, combing hair, or applying makeup can be a triggering factor for pain. The condition can also cause numbness and wasting of muscles
  • Weakness of facial muscles (involving the temporalis and pterygoid muscles); swollen face and asymmetric facial appearance, including jaw deviation in some
  • Involvement of other cranial nerves, resulting in their compression. It can reportedly cause abducens nerve (cranial nerve VI) paralysis affecting one’s vision; this is observed in over 25% of the cases
  • Large-sized tumors are known to cause motor (muscle) dysfunction due to involvement of the mandibular nerves
  • Malignant tumors grow far more rapidly, present pronounced symptoms (mentioned above), and additionally cause skull bone erosion, depending on tumor location
  • Unilateral paresis or one-sided body weakness may be noted
  • Convulsions and memory impairment are not generally noted
  • Multiple schwannomas are known to occur in a background of neurofibromatosis type 2 disorder

Large and/or malignant tumors can cause significant signs and symptoms. Also, associated symptoms of the underlying condition, if any, may be noted.

How is Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma Diagnosed?

In many cases, Trigeminal Nerve Schwannomas remain undiagnosed for prolonged periods, since they do not present any significant signs and symptoms and are generally slow-growing. The slow development of symptoms may contribute to a delayed detection and diagnosis of these tumors. The tumors are detected when there is a sudden worsening of symptoms prompting the healthcare provider to perform radiological studies of the brain.

A diagnosis of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma may involve the following tests and examinations:

  • Complete physical examination with thorough evaluation of the individual’s medical history (including family history of NF2 or schwannoma)
  • Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
  • Cranial nerve examination: Usually, cranial nerves III, IV, and VI are examined together
  • Neurological, motor skills, and cognitive assessment:
    • Checking intellectual ability, memory, mental health and function, language skills, judgment and reasoning, coordination and balance, reflexes, and sensory perceptions (space, sight, hearing, touch, etc.)
    • The healthcare provider/neurologist may use the Karnofsky Performance Scale in order to assess the neurological functioning of the individual’s central nervous system (CNS)
  • Electromyography with nerve conductivity tests
  • Electroencephalography (EEG)
  • Imaging studies that may be performed include:
    • X-ray of head and neck and/or vertebral column
    • Computerized tomography (CT) scan of the head and neck region; CT with contrast
    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the central nervous system; MRI with contrast agents such as gadolinium. It is considered to be the gold standard with respect to Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma diagnosis and surgical approach to treatment
    • Cerebral angiographic studies or magnetic resonance angiography: An angiogram involves injecting dye into the bloodstream, which makes the blood vessels to appear visually on X-rays. The X-ray may show a tumor in the brain or the blood vessels leading into the tumor
    • Magnetic resonance spectroscopy: This radiological technique is used to study the chemical profile of the tumor. It is often performed with and compared to corresponding MRI scan images of the affected region
    • Positron emission tomography (PET scan): A PET scan is a nuclear medicine imaging technique that uses three-dimensional images to show how tissue and organs are functioning. It may be performed to detect any malignancy, and if there is a metastasis (spread) of the tumor to other regions
  • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis, where a spinal tap or lumbar puncture procedure may be performed: This diagnostic test is used to remove a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the spaces in and around the brain and spinal cord. The sample is removed from the lower spinal cord using a thin needle, and it is then checked for the presence of cancer cells

Tissue biopsy: A biopsy of the affected region (brain) is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy sample under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy sample under a microscope by a pathologist is helpful in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis.

There are two ways to perform a biopsy:

  • First, a biopsy can be performed as part of a surgical procedure to remove the brain tumor
  • Second, a stereotactic needle biopsy can be performed when the tumor is deep within the brain or located in a sensitive area. In this procedure, the surgeon drills a small hole (called a burr hole) into the skull. A thin needle, guided by CT or MRI scanning, is then inserted through the hole to help in the removal of tissue

A differential diagnosis to eliminate other conditions or tumor types, such as trochlear schwannomas and other intracranial cystic tumors, may be considered, before arriving at a definitive diagnosis.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma?

The complications from Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma could include:

  • Large-sized tumors can cause cosmetic issues and noticeable facial asymmetry
  • Permanent damage to the trigeminal nerve and/or other involved cranial nerves due to progression of the tumor (mass effect and compression)
  • Severe facial paralysis and hearing loss
  • Emotional and mental stress for both the patient and the caretakers, due to the diagnosis and during treatment of a brain tumor
  • Large undetected tumors can severely affect brain function and be disabling or even life-threatening
  • Very rarely, schwannomas can become malignant (malignant transformation of schwannoma); Malignant Trigeminal Schwannomas can spread to the bone and lungs. In some cases, skin nodules have been observed, due to metastasis
  • Complications due to an underlying genetic disorder, if any present, may be observed

Complications may arise from surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other treatment modalities.

Surgery:

  • Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery to remove the tumor; injury to unaffected brain tissue during surgery
  • Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication
  • Sometimes, removing the tumor can worsen the signs and symptoms in some individuals
  • Post-operative facial hypesthesia (numbness and reduced touch sensation) is noted in nearly 55-80% of the cases. Jaw and ear muscle weakness causing motor dysfunction (present before treatment) may not resolve with surgery
  • Infrequently, recurrence of the tumor after surgery is observed, particularly in the cavernous sinus and Meckel’s cave region of the brain, due to incomplete tumor removal
  • A complete surgical removal of malignant schwannoma is difficult; thus, the recurrence rates are higher with malignant tumors

Chemotherapy side effects depend on the type of chemotherapy medication used and may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Mouth sores
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Increased risk for infections
  • Easy bruising

Radiation therapy can cause short-term side effects. It depends on the type used and may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Dryness of mouth; loss of taste
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Skin color changes; usually darkening of skin on the face and neck may be noted
  • Speech and hearing difficulties
  • Memory issues
  • Seizures
  • Long-term side effects (seen after 6 months or beyond) may include loss of memory, impaired brain function, and appearance of symptoms that mimic stroke

How is Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma Treated?

In general, the treatment modality for a benign brain tumor is chosen depending on the size, location, and stage of the tumor, tumor growth rate, age and health status of the individual. Tumors that are small and slow-growing usually may be observed and no treatment necessitated, based on the healthcare provider’s specific case-by-case assessment. Often, a multidisciplinary team of specialists including otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists, neurologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapy experts, and other healthcare professionals may be involved in managing the condition.

The treatment measures for benign Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma may include:

  • Wait and watch approach by the healthcare provider may be rarely considered for small and benign tumors that are not associated with any underlying genetic disorders such as neurofibromatosis
  • Symptomatic treatment may involve the use of antiseizure medications, painkillers, steroids (to reduce inflammation), and administration of anti-depressants

Surgical excision and tumor removal may be recommended for treating Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma. A very important criterion for surgery is a possibility of injury to the cranial nerve(s), based on where the tumor is located. Permanent post-operative injury and compromised cranial nerve function may be reported in some cases. The surgical treatment options may include the following:

  • Microsurgery: The surgery is performed using microsurgical techniques, which can help minimize damage to the accompanying nerve. Since the tumor mostly affects the covering around the nerves, it can be completely removed without affecting the nerve in most cases. The following techniques may be employed:
    • Subtotal removal; when the tumor is incompletely removed
    • Near total removal; when most of the tumor is removed and there is very little tumor remnants
    • Total tumor removal; when the tumor is removed completely
  • Craniotomy: It is a surgical procedure wherein a tiny hole is created in the cranium to remove the tumor
  • Post-operative care is important: One must maintain minimum activity levels, until the surgical wound heals

Surgical procedures to remove brain tumors carry risks, including infection, possible damage to healthy brain tissue, swelling, or possible fluid build-up in the brain.

In case of malignancy, additional treatment options, such as chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, may be considered.

  • Chemotherapy may be used to destroy the tumor cells:
    • It is not reportedly a very useful method to treat the condition
    • The response of the tumor to chemotherapy is an important consideration while using this treatment modality
    • Whether to use chemotherapy as a treatment modality is determined by healthcare provider on case-by-case basis
  • Radiation therapy may be useful in individuals who are not candidates for surgery. Such cases include:
    • Individuals with overall poor health status
    • The presence of bilateral schwannomas
    • Individuals with minimal symptoms
  • Stereotactic radiosurgery is a relatively new treatment method that can be helpful in some individuals. It is a radiation therapy technique and not an invasive surgical procedure. It can be administered using a Gamma Knife (Gamma Knife radiosurgery) and is considered for tumors that are less than 3 cm in size. This method is known to be beneficial in many cases and is preferred nowadays
  • External beam radiation therapy using a linear accelerator is helpful in preserving neurological function, especially when tumors are smaller
  • Treatment of the underlying neurofibromatosis type 2 or any other genetic condition, if present

Clinical trials: In advanced stages of tumor progression, there may be some newer treatment options, currently on clinical trials, which can be considered for some patients depending on their respective risk factors

Regular observation and periodic checkups to monitor the condition is strongly recommended following treatment. In order to avoid a relapse, or be prepared for a recurrence, the entire diagnosis, treatment process, drugs administered, healthcare recommendations post-treatment, etc. should be well-documented and follow-up measures initiated accordingly.

How can Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma be Prevented?

Presently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent the formation of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma. However, if it is associated with a genetic disorder, the following points may be considered:

  • Genetic counseling and testing: If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child
  • Regular health check-ups might help those individuals with a history of the condition in the immediate family, in order to help diagnose the tumor early

In general, the factors that may help reduce the incidence of schwannomas and other brain tumor include:

  • Reducing exposure to ionizing radiation
  • Avoiding cigarette smoke inhalation
  • Weight loss, in case one is obese or overweight; maintaining a good BMI
  • Availing early treatment for infections
  • Using safety gear including wearing helmets when playing sports or while riding two-wheelers
  • Wearing seatbelts while driving automobiles to minimize the risk for head/body injury

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with blood tests, scans, and physical examinations are mandatory. Often several years of active vigilance are crucial and necessary.

What is the Prognosis of Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of benign Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma is excellent, particularly if the tumor can be removed without damaging the underlying nerve. However, resolution of some symptoms, such as numbness or trigeminal nerve motor dysfunction, may not be achieved.

  • In very rare cases, asymptomatic (benign) tumors may require no treatment; unless they cause discomfort, affect the quality of life, or affect functioning of the underlying nerve. In such cases, a close monitoring of the schwannoma is a treatment option
  • Benign Trigeminal Schwannomas may recur from incomplete tumor removals, and/or due to tumor infiltration into the cavernous sinus or brainstem region. Recurrences may take anywhere from 1-9 years; and, the tumor recurrence rate is between 1% to 17%
  • If benign schwannomas transform to malignant tumors (in rare occasions), then the prognosis may depend upon a variety of factors such as the stage of the tumor, overall health of the individual, and response to therapy. Such a malignant transformation may take place over 3 or more years

Even though extremely rare, Malignant Trigeminal Schwannomas are difficult to diagnose and treat. It is also difficult to achieve complete resections (tumor removals), and so, local recurrences are high at around 50%, despite appropriate treatment (surgery and radiation therapy). According to reports, the 5-year survival rates range from 38% to 66% for malignant tumors.

In general, the prognosis of brain tumors (both benign and malignant) may vary considerably from one individual to another and is dependent on a set of factors, which include:

  • Tumor histology or grade of the tumor: The lower the grade, the better is the prognosis. Benign schwannomas are grade I tumors
  • Stage of tumor: With lower-stage tumors, when the tumor is confined to site of origin, the prognosis is usually excellent with appropriate therapy. In higher-stage tumors, such as tumors with metastasis, the prognosis is poor
  • Age of the individual: Older individuals generally have poorer prognosis than younger individuals
  • Overall health of the individual: Individuals with overall excellent health have better prognosis compared with those with poor health
  • The size of the tumor: Individuals with small-sized tumors fare better than those with large-sized tumors
  • Location of the tumor is an important prognostic factor: Tumors at certain sites involving the central nervous system are more difficult to surgically excise and remove. They can also cause considerable neurological damage at certain sites in the brain and/or spinal cord. Tumors located near vital structures of the brain have poor prognosis
  • Tumors that are slow-growing have better prognosis than rapidly-growing tumors
  • Presence of certain genetic abnormalities may result in a rapid progression of tumor growth and development
  • Sporadic tumors have generally better prognosis than syndromic tumors; tumors in a background of genetic disorders/syndromes may have additional complications
  • The ease of accessibility and surgical resectability of the tumor (meaning, if the primary tumor can be removed completely). This is an important prognostic factor, since it may determine if the tumor can be completely resected or not
  • Extent of residual tumor in the body following a surgical resection: A complete surgical excision with entire tumor removal presents the best outcome. In some cases, large portions of the tumor may be removed; or, only a small portion for tissue biopsy
  • Individuals with bulky disease may have a poorer prognosis
  • Involvement of other vital organs may complicate the condition
  • Metastatic spread: Spread of the malignancy to other body sites portrays a poorer prognosis
  • Whether the tumor is occurring for the first time or is a recurrent tumor. Recurring tumors have worse prognosis compared to tumors that do not recur 
  • Response to treatment and absence of post-operative complications: Tumors that respond to treatment have better prognosis compared to tumors that do not respond to treatment
  • Functional neurologic status based on neurological evaluation of the patient: A higher score on the Karnofsky Performance Scale may indicate a more favorable outcome

An early diagnosis and prompt treatment of the tumor generally yields better outcomes than a late diagnosis and delayed treatment.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Trigeminal Nerve Schwannoma:

Please visit our Cancer & Benign Tumor Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/

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