Vestibular Schwannoma and Dizziness

Introduction: Previous studies indicate that dizziness is the most debilitating symptom in vestibular schwannoma patients. Patients: A total of 434 consecutive patients referred to our clinic between 2001 and 2010. Intervention: Diagnostic, with a medical history, otolaryngological examination, pure tone and speech audiometry, MRI, posturography (sensory organization test), and videonystagmography with bithermal caloric tests. Results: Except for hearing loss caused by surgery, treatment did not affect symptoms or QOL significantly. Growth was associated with the occurrence of tinnitus and balance problems. Vestibular complaints were significant predictors for becoming dependent of disability pension. Severe dizziness defined as VAS ¡Ý 75 was reported by 9% of the patients. No dizziness defined as VAS < 5 was reported by 35%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the moderate to severe vertigo was associated with canal paresis and postural imbalance. There was a weak, inverse relationship between vertigo and tumor size. Canal paresis was associated with tumor size. Postural imbalance was associated with age, male sex, and tumor size. Conclusion: Growth was associated with the occurrence of tinnitus and balance problems. Except for hearing loss caused by surgery, there was a small improvement in vestibular complaints and no change in the occurrence of tinnitus. Treatment did not affect symptoms or QOL significantly. Vestibular complaints were significant predictors for beco