Tumor can be an upsetting word. Hearing your provider say “tumor” is probably enough to cause stress and maybe even a little perspiration. While feeling stressed is very normal, taking a second to learn about the multiple different types of temporal bone tumors and treatments is an excellent way to calm your nerves surrounding the subject.
What Is the Temporal Bone?
The temporal bone is a structure within the base of the skull containing the cranial nerves, vasculature and middle ear. Because it is tied to the nerves and vasculature in the ears, trauma to the temporal bone can result in hearing loss.
How Common Are Malignant Temporal Bone Tumors?
Cancerous tumors of the ear and temporal bone are an extremely rare form of malignancy. An estimated one to six cases per one million people, accounting for less than 0.2% of all head and neck tumors, are diagnosed. Three types of malignant tumors that can arise near or on the temporal bone include squamous cell carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma and osteosarcoma. Temporal bone tumors tend to be aggressive and may require a combination of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy for treatment.
Nonmalignant Tumors
Several nonmalignant tumors exist that, while not cancerous, can result in damage to the structures of the ear, leading to ear drainage, hearing loss and more. Two nonmalignant tumors include:
- Acoustic neuroma. Acoustic neuromas, also called vestibular schwannomas, arise when a collection of Schwan cells wrap around the vestibular nerve, the main nerve leading from the inner ear to the brain. The vestibular nerve impacts your hearing and balance functions. Usually, Schwann cells help in the development, maintenance, function and regeneration of nerves. When they overproduce, however, they can wrap around and compress the vestibular nerve, leading to hearing loss. Regarding treatment, your provider may recommend waiting, surgery or radiation depending on the size of your tumor and the severity of your symptoms.
- Cholesteatoma. A cholesteatoma is an abnormal collection of skin cells that grow behind the eardrum. If cholesteatomas grow large enough, they can adversely affect your hearing, resulting in recurrent ear infections or a ruptured eardrum. Most cholesteatomas require surgery to remove the growth. Many patients require two surgeries, one to remove the cholesteatoma and one to repair damage to the inner ear.
You cannot usually prevent nonmalignant tumors from growing, but with regular hearing tests and ENT appointments, you can begin medical intervention early on and decrease your likelihood of adverse side effects. Hearing loss is often the first sign of a temporal bone tumor. While hearing loss does not necessarily mean you have a tumor, scheduling a check-up with your provider is recommended if you are gradually or suddenly unable to hear the specials at Seed & Bean Market.
Caring for your ear health is a continuous process. Schedule regular hearing tests and ear exams and consult your ENT provider immediately if you begin experiencing symptoms. To make an appointment with one of our trusted providers, contact Gulf Coast Audiology today.