Vestibular Schwannoma synonyms

A vestibular schwannoma, also known as an acoustic neuroma, is a benign tumor that develops on the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. This type of tumor typically grows slowly and arises from Schwann cells, which are responsible for supporting and insulating nerve fibers.

Vestibular schwannoma is the medical term used to describe this condition. However, it is commonly referred to as an acoustic neuroma due to its location near the acoustic nerve. The term "acoustic" refers to the nerve's role in hearing, as it carries auditory information from the inner ear to the brain.

Other synonyms for vestibular schwannoma include:

• Acoustic neurilemoma: This term is derived from the Greek words "neuron" (nerve) and "lemos" (husk), emphasizing the tumor's origin from the nerve sheath.


• Neuroma of the eighth cranial nerve: The vestibular nerve is also known as the eighth cranial nerve or the auditory-vestibular nerve. Therefore, this synonym highlights the tumor's association with this specific nerve.


• Neurilemmoma: This term is used to describe a benign tumor originating from Schwann cells, which are found in the peripheral nervous system.


• Neurolemmoma: Similar to neurilemmoma, this synonym emphasizes the tumor's connection to Schwann cells.

It is important to note that while these terms are used interchangeably, they all refer to the same type of tumor. Vestibular schwannomas are typically non-cancerous and slow-growing, but they can cause symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and balance problems. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial for minimizing potential complications and preserving quality of life.

by Diseasemaps