Acoustic neuroma causes
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Simrat Sarai, M.D. [2]
Overview
Majority of the cases of acoustic neuroma are idiopathic. Less common causes include defect in tumor suppressor genes and high-dose ionizing radiation.[1]
Causes
- The cause of acoustic neuromas is largely unknown. No environmental factor has been scientifically proven to cause these tumors, however there is a growing body of evidence that sporadic defects in tumor suppressor genes may give rise to these tumors in some individuals. They can be sporadic or caused by an inherited condition called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2). Sporadic tumors occur 95% of the time, while 5% of acoustic tumors are caused by NF-2. The cause of sporadic form is unclear. Neurofibromatosis type II occurs in individuals who have defective tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 22q12.2. The defective protein produced by the gene is called merlin or schwannomin.
- There is no evidence supporting a link between environmental factors and acoustic neuromas. Exposure to high-dose ionizing radiation is the only definite environmental risk factor associated with an increased risk of developing an acoustic neuroma. Other studies have hinted at exposure to loud noise on a consistent basis. One study has shown a relationship between acoustic neuromas and prior exposure to head and neck radiation, and a concomitant history of having had a parathyroid adenoma (tumor found in proximity to the thyroid gland controlling calcium metabolism). There are even controversies on hand held cellular phones. Whether or not the radiofrequency radiation has anything to do with acoustic neuroma formation, remains to be seen. To date, no environmental factor (such as cell phones or diet) has been scientifically proven to cause these tumors. The Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) does recommend that frequent cellular phone users use a hands free device to enable separation of the device from the head. The Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) does recommend that frequent cellular phone users use a hands free device to enable separation of the device from the head. [2]