Facial nerve neurinoma presenting as middle cranial fossa mass: CT appearance

Two cases of large seventh nerve neurinoma presenting as masses in the middle cranial fossa are presented. The radiographic findings are discussed with attention to CT appearance. In the appropriate clinical context, correlation with radiographic studies should strongly support diagnosis of middle fossa neurinoma originating from the seventh cranial nerve. Failure of preoperative diagnosis may result in unexpected operative loss of facial nerve function.