Schwannoma

Schwannoma Overview

A schwannoma is a rare type of tumor that develops from cells called Schwann cells. These cells are responsible for creating a protective covering around the peripheral nerves in your body, but can form tumors when their growth becomes uncontrolled.

Much like electrical wires, nerves carry electrical signals throughout your body. Schwann cells lay down a fatty substance called myelin that functions like the insulation around an electrical wire. Schwannomas usually grow slowly and are usually noncancerous (benign). However, in rare cases, they can be cancerous (malignant).

Schwannomas typically affect only a single nerve. As the tumor grows and compresses the nearby nerve it can cause symptoms that depend on the location and function of the nerve. These symptoms can include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or even loss of muscle function. Vestibular schwannomas (also called acoustic neuromas) are the most common type of schwannoma and affect the nerves that connect your inner ear to your brain.

Schwannomas only occur on the nerves of the peripheral nervous system, or outside of the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system). Oligodendrocytes, another kind of cell, are responsible for myelin formation in the central nervous system.

The exact cause of Schwannomas is not fully understood, but they can sometimes be associated with a genetic conditions called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and schwannomatosis.

Most schwannomas can be treated and cured through surgery. However, depending on the size and location of the tumor, there may be a risk of nerve damage during the surgery.

Schwannoma Treatments

The primary treatment for schwannomas is surgical removal of the tumor. The goal of the surgery is to completely excise the tumor while preserving the function of the affected nerve as much as possible.

Some tumors, particularly small and superficial Schwannomas, can be removed without disturbing the surrounding nerve tissue.

If your schwannoma is larger or deeply embedded, more extensive surgery may be required. This could involve removing a portion of the nerve or, in rare cases, complete removal of the affected nerve. Removing the entire nerve may result in permanent loss of sensation or function in the area supplied by that nerve.

In situations where complete removal of the tumor is not feasible due to its size or location, or if you are not a suitable candidate for surgery, other treatment options may be considered. These options include:

• Observation: If your Schwannoma is small, slow-growing, and not causing significant symptoms, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring through imaging tests (such as MRI) to observe any changes in the tumor over time.
• Radiation therapy: In some cases, radiation therapy may be used to shrink the tumor or prevent its growth. This treatment option is typically reserved for patients who are unable to undergo surgery or for tumors that have recurred after surgery.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as pain relievers or corticosteroids, may be prescribed to manage pain or inflammation associated with the tumor.

The treatment approach will depend on several factors, including the size and location of the tumor, the severity of symptoms, and your overall health.