Acoustic neuroma physical examination
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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
Common physical examination findings of acoustic neuroma include lateralization to the normal ear in Weber test, decreased or absent ipsilateral corneal reflex, and facial twitching or hypesthesia.[1]
Physical Examination
Diagnosis of acoustic neuromas begins with a history and physical examination, followed by otologic testing, and finally radiologic scanning.
Ear Examination
- Sensorineural hearing loss in the affected ear
- Rinne test is positive
- Rinne test is positive: air conduction > bone conduction (both air and bone conduction are decreased equally, but the difference between them is unchanged).
- Weber test lateralizes to normal ear.[2]
Eye examination
- Nystagmus may be present
- Papilledema may be present
- Diplopia on lateral gaze may be present
Neurological Examination
Often, the physical exam is normal at the time the tumor is diagnosed. Occasionally, the following cranial nerves may be affected:[3]
- Cranial nerve V- A decreased or absent ipsilateral corneal reflex.
- Cranial nerve VII- Facial twitching or hypesthesia may occur. Drooling may occur. Drooping on one side of the face may occur. Loss of taste may occur.
- Cranial nerve VIII- In sensorineural hearing loss Rinne test is positive and Weber test is abnormal.
- Cranial nerve IX- the back half of the tongue can lose its sense of taste.
- Cerebellum: The following tests may be positive:
- Romberg, Hall-Pike, and other balance tests are typically normal.