Acoustic Neuroma

Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic doctors trained in ear, nose and throat conditions (otorhinolaryngologists), doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists), hearing specialists (audiologists) and other specialists evaluate your condition.

To diagnose acoustic neuroma, your doctor may review your symptoms and conduct a physical examination. Your doctor may order several tests to diagnose your condition and exclude other conditions.

• Audiometry. This hearing test helps your doctor determine whether the nerve affecting your hearing and balance (eighth cranial nerve) is working properly.
• Brainstem auditory evoked response. This hearing test measures your brain's response to clicking sounds in your ear. This test helps determine whether the eighth cranial nerve is working and if your hearing and brainstem are functioning properly.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan. This detailed imaging test can reveal tumors in your head and other areas of your body.
• Electronystagmography (ENG). Doctors may order this test or other balance tests to evaluate whether your dizziness is caused by ear problems.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This detailed imaging test, sometimes used with a gadolinium contrast, can reveal tumors in your head and other areas of your body. Doctors often use this test to identify acoustic neuromas.

Read more about CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at MayoClinic.com.