An acoustic neuroma (or schwannoma) is a benign tumor which manifests itself on the sheath surrounding the eighth cranial nerve, affecting the functions of the inner ear. Because many of the symptoms are also indicative of other less serious ailments, acoustic neuromas are often misdiagnosed or undetected.

If untreated, an acoustic neuroma is life-threatening, making it imperative that individuals with persistent inner-ear problems be evaluated to eliminate the possibility of an acoustic neuroma.