AboutDina Q Goldin, Ph.D. Expertise Information and advice for Acoustic Neuroma patients who would like honest patient-to-patient interaction about their symptoms or about treatments and related medical procedures. If you are unsure if your experience is "normal", or are wondering whether your information is complete, feel free to ask.
Experience I am an Acoustic Neuroma patient and the founding editor
of the Acoustic Neuroma Patient Archive (http://www.ANarchive.org).
Question saw my ENT last week with following symptoms: Gradual unilateral hearing loss, tinnitus, two sever bouts of vertigo, and slight tingling of left side lips. My mother also has a histoy of acoustic neuroma. My ? is, since I have a defibulater/pacemaker, he sent me in for a CT scan without contrast. Will that even detect an acoustic??
Answer A CT scan without contrast is not a reliable way to detect an acoustic neuroma. An ENT cannot be expected to know what are the best radiology options to detect an acoustic neuroma, for a patient who does not fit the standard profile. There are other contrast agents, and other forms of scanning (such as MRI). I suggest you consult with a neuroradiologist, to find scanning options that are good for detecting Acoustic Neuromas, and safe for you.
