Acoustic neuroma—the patient's perspective: Subjective assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, therapy, and outcome in 541 patients

TLDR

Although surgical treatment of acoustic neuroma has been extensively reviewed, patient‑reported outcomes have been largely overlooked. This article reports the subjective assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes as evaluated by 541 members of the Acoustic Neuroma Association. The study retrospectively surveyed 541 acoustic neuroma patients across multiple institutions to compile their experiences. The analysis revealed a unique patient‑centered perspective on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes not previously reported in the literature.

Abstract

Surgical treatment of acoustic neuroma has been reviewed in the medical literature, but assessment of outcome from the patient's perspective has received little attention. The Acoustic Neuroma Association (A.N.A.) is a large organization of acoustic neuroma patients which provides information and support services. This article reports the subjective assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome as evaluated by 541 A.N.A. members. This retrospective study presents an extensive overview of the experience of acoustic neuroma patients treated at a variety of institutions, and provides a unique perspective not previously represented in the medical literature.