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Symptoms

How We Can Help You

Schwannomas are benign tumors that can sometimes grow to a substantial size. Cranial nerve (CN) schwannomas involve the nerves of the head & neck region. One of the only known risk factors for these tumors is a rare genetic disorder.

The signs and symptoms of cranial nerve schwannomas depend on what nerve is affected. Symptoms can include chronic burning facial pain, eye muscle deficits, facial muscle weakness, or hearing loss.

Diagnosis of any of the cranial nerve schwannomas is typically by history, physical exam findings, and imaging. Imaging routinely involves a dedicated skull base MRI.

Treatment options are usually tailored to the needs of the patient, including observation with serial imaging, stereotactic radiation with Gamma Knife or CyberKnife, or surgical resection.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU FOR CRANIAL NERVE SCHWANNOMAS

  • Globally-recognized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of cranial nerve schwannomas.
  • Team-based treatment planning that brings together specialists from neurosurgery, head and neck surgery, neuroradiology, radiation oncology, neurotology, neuropathology, audiology, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, and more.
  • Advanced treatment options in radiation therapy, minimally-invasive surgery, genetic assessment and counseling, hearing and speech support.
  • Comprehensive support services like occupational or physical rehabilitation, nutritional and emotional support to help you with your specific symptoms and the challenges of this experience.
  • An active clinical research program dedicated to broadening options for the diagnosis and treatment of cranial nerve schwannomas.
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Treatment Options for Cranial Nerve Schwannomas

Treatment options are usually tailored to the needs of the patient. Options include observation with serial imaging, stereotactic radiation (such as Gamma Knife or CyberKnife), or surgical resection. A patient's preferences, age, overall physical health, and the size of the tumor are all factors in determining the treatment modality.

Clinical Trials for Cranial Nerve Schwannomas

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Open Clinical Trials

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Clinical trials evaluate new approaches, devices, or medications in the treatment of schwannomas. Ask your doctor or clinical trials coordinator about available trials that may be additional options for your care.

To learn more about the clinical trials we offer, contact Maria Coburn at 650-736-9551.

Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.
View Closed Clinical Trials Symptoms

What are Cranial Nerve Schwannomas?

Symptoms of Cranial Nerve Schwannomas

The signs and symptoms of cranial nerve schwannomas depend on what nerve is affected and at what location.

  • Trigeminal Schwannomas or Neuromas involve either the nerve ganglion or the nerve root. Symptoms include trigeminal neuralgia, chronic burning facial pain, eye muscle deficits, facial muscle weakness, hearing loss, or loss of corneal reflux leading to corneal abrasions. 
  • Facial nerve schwannomas and neuromas often present with symptoms of facial weakness/paralysis that can be subtle or obvious for many years, sometimes with twitching. Other symptoms include temporary facial palsy mimicking a Bell's palsy and/or hearing loss.
  • Other schwannomas involve the so called lower cranial nerve schwannomas listed above, including glossopharyngeal, vagal, and spinal accessory. Symptoms include hoarseness, hearing loss, palate weakness, diminished gag reflex, or diminished pharyngeal sensation.

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Stanford Neuroscience Health Center

Stanford Neuroscience brings together top neurologists, neurosurgeons, and interventional neuroradiologists who work side-by-side to offer you truly comprehensive, coordinated care.

213 Quarry Road
 Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: 650-723-6469 Getting Here

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