Abstract
Vestibular Schwannoma (VS) is a rare benign tumor arising from vestibular part of 8th cranial nerve. The vast majority of the VS are sporadic (95%).
Only 5% are hereditary mainly as a part of neurofibromatosis type II. These tumors typically present with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus and problems with balance.
The diagnosis of vestibular schwannoma is based on hearing and vestibular tests, and now preferably MRI. Natural history of the tumor is presented to give better understanding of different biology of each tumor.
This is very important for the treatment plan which must be tailored individually. Historical overview of different treatment modalities is presented.
Three options of management (monitoring, radiation therapy and surgery) and their application are discussed.