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Brain Tumors/Mri says 6mm lesion on base of 5th cranial nerve

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Expert: - 12/9/2009


Question
I had an MRI in 11/09 and the results came back as a 6mm lesion on my 5th cranial nerve, possibly a meningioma or a schwannoma.  I have hearing loss in my right ear and have facial twitching since early spring(May09).  Doctors don't seem too concerned.  Having an MRA this week.  How serious are these tumors and should I get a 2nd opionion.  I feel like since I have symptoms, we should do something. Thanks for your time and your expertise.

Answer
Since it is on your 5th cranial nerve and not your 8th (your hearing and balance nerve) it is most doubtful if this has anything to do with your hearing problem. Both meningiomas and schwannomas are benign (non cancerous) tumors. A 6 mm tumor (1 inch = 25.4 mm) is also quite small. If you want it eliminated that can in this case probably easily be done radiologically without any surgery by the use of the so called "GammaKnife". So if you want it done that method can probably be recommended.


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Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.

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I`m a doctor of medicine and specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have a long time experience of these tumours.

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I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy, educated and trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps. You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 . I have no restrictions on the number of questions there. I also answer questions about Oncology (General Cancer), General History, Military History, Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer.

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Doctor of medicine, specialist in medical oncology & radiation therapy.

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