Three numb tongues, two mris and a gold weight in an eyelid: a case series of acoustic neuromas and their relevance to dental practice

Abstract

Acoustic neuromas are brain tumours originating from the Schwann cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve. As acoustic neuromas grow, the vestibulocochlear, facial and trigeminal nerves are often compressed, resulting in the common presenting complaints of hearing loss, balance disturbance, facial nerve weakness and altered sensation of the orofacial region. Thus, patients with an acoustic neuroma may present to the dentist with a range of problems. Herein we present three cases of acoustic neuroma that were diagnosed following presentation to the Glasgow Dental Hospital Oral Medicine Department and discuss the common clinical features, radiological findings and management options for acoustic neuromas. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Dentists should be aware of the common presenting features of acoustic neuromas and when onward referral is indicated.