Comprehensive Care for Tumors Caused by NF2

If you develop acoustic neuromas, which are benign tumors, on both sides of your head, you might have a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). Tumors related to neurofibromatosis type 1 tend to develop around the nerves in your skin, whereas tumors stemming from NF2 tend to develop on the eighth cranial nerve (one of your brain nerves), also called the vestibulocochlear nerve. This cranial nerve controls hearing and balance, so problems with hearing and balance can be symptoms of an acoustic neuroma (also known as a vestibular schwannoma) caused by NF2. People with NF2 usually develop bilateral vestibular schwannomas, but in some cases, they can develop tumors elsewhere as well. This genetic disorder is usually passed down from one of your parents, but sometimes you can spontaneously develop it as well. While NF2 is rare, symptoms are most commonly first noticed between the ages of 18-24. Some people, however, might not develop symptoms until later in life. We can provide genetic counseling for families with a history of NF2.

Are Acoustic Neuromas Hereditary?

NF2 Treatment Team

Your clinical team for NF2 treatment at the USC Acoustic Neuroma Center is made up of a multidisciplinary group of otolaryngologists, neurologists, radiation oncologists, audiologists, neurosurgeons, medical geneticists and orthopedists.

Does Acoustic Neuroma Affect People of All Ages?