Facial nerve neuroma.

Abstract

AbstractFacial nerve neuromas are uncommon, slow growing, and readily treatable when detected. Fourteen patients with facial nerve neuromas are reported here. These tumors can occur within any part of the intratemporal course of the facial nerve. Occurrence and progression of the symptoms depend on the site of origin of the tumor and are those of facial nerve paralysis, hearing loss, or vertigo; occasionally there may be no symptoms at all. Initial facial paralysis may recover leading to a mistaken diagnosis of Bell's palsy. All patients with facial paralysis should be seen by an otologist whose examination would include audiogram for pure tones and speech, positional and caloric vestibular examination and roentgenogram of the temporal bone. If the possibility of intracranial extension exists, a pre‐operative myelogram of the posterior fossa should be made. Early diagnosis, prompt surgical removal, and graft or end to end anastomosis of the facial nerve would be the goal in the treatment of facial nerve neuromas.