Neurofibromatosis Type 2

Diagnosis

A team of Mayo Clinic doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists), doctors trained in head and neck conditions (otorhinolaryngologists) and other doctors works together to evaluate your condition.

To diagnose neurofibromatosis type 2, your doctor will review your family medical history and symptoms. Your doctor also will conduct a physical examination and check for signs of neurofibromatosis type 2, including hearing loss. You may undergo several tests to diagnose neurofibromatosis type 2 and identify tumors on nerves that control your hearing and balance (vestibular schwannomas or acoustic neuromas), tumors along the protective lining of your spinal cord and brain (meningiomas), brain tumors (gliomas) or other tumors.

• Audiometry. This hearing test helps your doctor determine whether the nerve affecting your hearing and balance (eighth cranial nerve) is working properly.
• Brain stem 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 brain stem 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 ear problems are causing your dizziness.
• Genetic testing. Your doctor may order genetic testing to help confirm your diagnosis, and may recommend genetic testing for your family members. Genetic testing also may be recommended if you're pregnant (prenatal testing).
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This detailed imaging test can reveal tumors in your head and other areas of your body. Doctors often use this test to identify neurofibromatosis type 2.
• Vision tests. An eye doctor may examine your eyes for cataracts or any changes.

Read more about CT scans, genetic testing, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and eye tests at MayoClinic.com.