​Schwannoma (Neurilemmoma)​​

Schwannoma (Neurilemmoma) are benign tumours of the nerve sheath, which are cells and tissues covering the nerves. It is also known as schwannoma as the tumours arise from Schwann cells, which produce the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibres.

The peripheral nervous system is the network of nervous tissues outside the brain and spinal cord. Neurilemmomas may affect any location in the peripheral nervous system, for instance, the major nerve of the leg (the sciatic nerve), the nerves at the top of the arm (the brachial plexus), the lower back (the network of nerves called the sacral plexus) or any other network of nerves for a body part.

There is no known cause of schwannomas and these tumours are usually benign (not cancerous). The most common type of benign schwannoma is the acoustic neuroma, which affects the nerves that control hearing and may cause deafness. Very few schwannomas become malignant and cancerous. The tumour cells grow very slowly with neurological symptoms (symptoms due to a nerve being affected) manifesting after many years. In some cases, a palpable mass that can be felt may be present.​​

Common symptoms of schwannoma depend on the tumor's location and may include:

  • A painless or painful lump that grows slowly
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area
  • Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (if located near the auditory nerves)
  • Difficulty with balance and coordination​
In many cases, schwannomas do not cause symptoms and are discovered incidentally.

Consult our Neuro Surgery or Oncology experts if you experience:

  • A new lump or mass that does not resolve
  • Persistent pain, numbness, or tingling in a specific area
  • Hearing or balance difficulties
  • Weakness in the limbs

Prompt evaluation can help confirm the diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment options.​​

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started. ​

Diagnosis of schwannoma typically involves:

  • Physical Examination: Assessing for palpable lumps and evaluating neurological symptoms.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): To visualize the tumor's location and size.
    • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: To assess effects on surrounding structures.
  • Biopsy: A sample of tissue may be taken for microscopic examination to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for schwannoma depends on the size, location, and symptoms and may include:

  • Observation: If the tumor is small and asymptomatic, periodic monitoring may be recommended.
  • Surgical Removal: The primary treatment for symptomatic schwannomas, aiming to remove the tumor while preserving nerve function.
  • Stereotactic Radiosurgery: A non-invasive option for tumors in challenging locations or for patients who are not surgical candidates.​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialised clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatment costs and authorise admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.​

Your doctor and/or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or severe reaction, please contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.​
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The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.​