Schwannoma is a tumor that originates from Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system or nerve roots. This tumor is typically benign (non-cancerous) but can sometimes be malignant (cancerous). In most cases, its growth is slow.
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Symptoms of Schwannoma
Schwannoma usually does not cause symptoms until it becomes large enough to compress surrounding nerves. You may experience occasional pain in the area controlled by the affected nerve.
Some common symptoms of schwannoma include:
- A visible lump under the skin
- Sharp pain or burning sensation
- Tingling or prickling sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Nighttime pain in the back or neck area
Depending on the tumor’s location, you may experience these symptoms in the face, arms, legs, or chest. Symptoms may also change as the tumor grows.
Most schwannomas occur in the nerves connecting the inner ear and the brain. This type of schwannoma is known as vestibular schwannoma or acoustic neuroma.
In addition to the symptoms above, vestibular schwannoma can cause:
- Hearing problems in one or both ears
- Ringing in one or both ears
- Loss of coordination and balance
Causes of Schwannoma
In most cases, the cause of schwannoma is unknown. Around 90% of cases occur sporadically (randomly).
Genetic disorders such as Carney complex, neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), and schwannomatosis can contribute to the development of schwannoma. Genetic studies indicate that the NF2 gene on chromosome 22 plays a significant role in the formation of this type of tumor.
Where Can Schwannoma Develop?
Schwannoma commonly appears in the nerves connecting the brain to the inner ear (vestibular schwannoma).
Vestibular schwannoma, also known as acoustic neuroma, develops from the balance and hearing nerve that supplies the inner ear. This tumor is typically benign and grows slowly.
However, as it grows, the tumor can affect hearing and balance nerves, leading to hearing loss in the affected ear, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and dizziness.
Malignant schwannomas most frequently occur in the sciatic nerve in the leg, the brachial plexus in the arm, and nerve groups in the lower back called the sacral plexus.
Diagnosis of Schwannoma
Imaging tests that doctors may use to diagnose schwannoma include:
- MRI: This test produces detailed images of organs and structures within the body using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer. It is the most commonly recommended imaging test for detecting and diagnosing schwannoma.
- CT Scan: This type of scan uses X-rays and a computer to create images of internal structures in the body.
- Ultrasound: This test uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images and videos of internal organs or soft tissues. Doctors may use ultrasound to detect schwannoma under the skin.
Treatment for Schwannoma
The treatment approach for schwannoma depends on the tumor’s location and growth rate.
Some treatment options include:
Observation
If the tumor is benign, grows very slowly, and does not cause symptoms or only causes mild symptoms, doctors may recommend close monitoring instead of immediate treatment.
If the tumor eventually grows larger and/or causes symptoms, doctors may suggest medical intervention.
Surgery
If the tumor grows rapidly or causes other issues, doctors may recommend surgical removal.
Although the primary goal of surgery is to remove the entire tumor, surgeons may only be able to remove part of it in some cases.
Since schwannoma forms in the nerve sheath, surgery is often possible without damaging the nerve. However, surgery for vestibular schwannoma often results in hearing impairment.
Radiation Therapy
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) uses multiple precisely focused radiation beams to destroy the tumor. Doctors may recommend SRS instead of surgery if the schwannoma is located near blood vessels or vital nerves to avoid complications.
If the schwannoma is cancerous, doctors may suggest treatments such as immunotherapy or chemotherapy.
Specialized Microsurgery for Schwannoma at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri offers microsurgery for schwannoma treatment. Microsurgery is a type of surgery that uses an operating microscope and precision instruments to repair or reconstruct extremely small structures, such as blood vessels and nerves.
Microsurgery focuses on restoring function to body parts that are no longer working properly. At Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, microsurgery is supported by Intra-Operative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) to ensure that tumor removal does not affect critical nerves in the brain.
Need Expert Consultation on Schwannoma?
Are you looking for a hospital that specializes in treating schwannoma? No need to worry—visit Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and a team of highly skilled specialists.
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