Schwannoma, also known as neurinoma or neurilemoma, is a type of benign tumor that affects Schwann cells located in the peripheral or central nervous system. This tumor usually appears after 50 years of age, and may appear on the head, knee, thigh or retroperitoneal region, for example.
Treatment consists of surgical removal of the tumor, but in some cases, it may not be possible due to its location.
What symptoms
The symptoms caused by the tumor depend on the affected region. If the tumor is located in the acoustic nerve it can cause progressive deafness, dizziness, vertigo, loss of balance, ataxia and ear pain, if there is compression of the trigeminal nerve, severe pain may occur when speaking, eating, drinking and numbness or facial paralysis.
Tumors that compress the spinal cord can cause weakness, digestive problems and difficulty in controlling the pockets and those located in the limbs can cause pain, weakness and tingling.
How the diagnosis is made
To make the diagnosis, the doctor must assess the signs and symptoms, medical history and perform the necessary tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, electromyography or a biopsy. Know what a biopsy is and what it is for.
Possible causes
The cause of Schwannoma is thought to be genetic and related to type 2 neurofibromatosis. In addition, radiation exposure may be another possible cause.
What is the treatment
For the treatment of Schwannoma, surgery is generally recommended for its removal, but depending on its location, the tumor may be inoperable.
