Vestibular schwannomas (VS), also named acoustic neurinoma, are benign tumors that originate from the Schwann cells of one of the four vestibular nerves (two at each side). These nerves are part of... Show moreVestibular schwannomas (VS), also named acoustic neurinoma, are benign tumors that originate from the Schwann cells of one of the four vestibular nerves (two at each side). These nerves are part of the eighth cranial nerve, the vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as the statoacoustic nerve. The vestibular nerves are located in the cerebellopontine angle, the space between brainstem, cerebellum and temporal bone. VS are the most common neoplasm located in the cerebellopontine angle and account for 8% of all intracranial tumors (1). The majority (95%) of VS are sporadic and occur unilateral. VS may exhibit a remarkable variable growth pattern: some tumors show a clear progression while others remain dormant and on occasion undergo shrinkage (2). The clinical symptoms most frequently seen are progressive (unilateral) hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus. Options for Treatment are observation (wait and scan), radiotherapy, or microsurgery. The choice of treatment depends on tumor size, severity and progression of the clinical symptoms, age of the patient, and patient preference.This thesis describes some of the clinical aspects of VS which are relevant for treatment. These concern the epidemiology, diagnostic challenges, clinical predictors affecting selection, and surgical technique and outcome. Show less
