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Mastoid ache in acoustic neuroma
D A Moffat1, D M Baguley, R A Evans
1Department of Otolaryngology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Mastoid ache occurred in 25% of acoustic neuroma patients, often alongside facial numbness. This symptom may indicate an expanding cerebellopontine angle tumor pressing on sensory nerves.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Acoustic neuroma, a benign tumor, arises from the vestibulocochlear nerve.
- Cerebellopontine angle tumors can present with varied neurological symptoms.
- Understanding subtle symptoms like mastoid ache is crucial for early diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and significance of mastoid aching in patients with unilateral acoustic neuroma.
- To determine if mastoid ache correlates with tumor characteristics or other neurological deficits.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 100 patients diagnosed with unilateral acoustic neuroma.
- Assessment of symptom reporting, including mastoid ache, facial sensation, and facial weakness.
- Correlation of mastoid ache with tumor size, hydrocephalus, and symptom duration.
Main Results:
- Mastoid ache was reported by 25% of patients, but not as a primary complaint.
- No significant relationship was found between mastoid ache and tumor size, hydrocephalus, or symptom duration.
- A higher incidence of facial numbness and diminished facial sensation was observed in patients with mastoid ache.
Conclusions:
- Mastoid ache may be an early indicator of an expanding cerebellopontine angle tumor.
- The presence of mastoid ache, particularly with facial sensory changes, warrants further investigation for acoustic neuroma.
- Sensory nerve compression may manifest as mastoid ache, preceding motor deficits.