Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Neurofibromatosis Type 2
Overview
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a hereditary condition most commonly associated with bilateral vestibular schwannomas, which are benign (noncancerous) tumors that occur on the nerves responsible for balance and hearing.
Individuals with this condition are at risk of developing other tumors of the nervous system. These include gliomas, meningiomas, schwannomas of other nerves, ependymomas, juvenile lenticular opacity and cortical cataracts.
6Common Symptoms
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Balance problems
- Glaucoma
- Vision impairment
- Numbness or weakness in the arms and legs
Diagnosis and Treatment
Management options for NF2 may include observation, radiation and/or surgery for vestibular schwannomas. For any associated hearing loss, we offer all hearing rehabilitation strategies including hearing aids, cochlear implants and auditory brainstem implants.
NF2 patients may also choose to enroll in ongoing clinical trials available at Mass Eye and Ear for their condition.
Meet Our Team
Our Hearing and Balanceteam is comprised of some of the world’s finest ear surgeons, skull base surgeons, balance disorder specialists and audiologists.
