Your Notifications
All done, no notifications

What is Schwannoma?

A schwannoma is a type of tumor that arises from Schwann cells found in the nerve roots or peripheral nervous system. They typically grow slowly and are benign. Vestibular schwannomas, which develop in an inner ear nerve, are the most prevalent kind.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

In addition to minimizing potential complications by treating the tumor while it is still small and before it causes significant damage or symptoms, early treatment of a schwannoma is essential because it allows for better preservation of function in the affected area, especially when the tumor is near vital nerves like those responsible for hearing and balance.

What are the Common Symptoms of Schwannoma?

  • Constant or sporadic pain at the tumor's location (however not all schwannomas are painful)
  • Tingling and numbness in the damaged nerve's vicinity
  • Loss of feeling in the damaged nerve's vicinity
  • Weakened muscles or altered reflexes
  • Lightheadedness or issues with balance.

Causes and Risk Factors of Schwannoma

Causes

Most of the time, the cause of schwannomas is unknown. About 90% of cases happen infrequently, or at random.

Schwannomatosis, neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2), and Carney complex are examples of genetic illnesses that can result in schwannomas. According to genetic research, the NF2 gene on chromosome 22 is crucial for the formation of schwannoma.

Risk Factors

This procedure carries the risks of bleeding, infection, and anesthesia-related side effects. Additionally, there is a chance of nerve injury, which could result in paralysis, numbness, or weakening in the afflicted area. Under the supervision of a skilled neurosurgeon, these side effects are uncommon. You will have a detailed discussion with your neurosurgeon about these risks and the steps being taken to reduce them.

Connect with our advisor for a PRIORITY response

Schwannoma Prevention Tips

Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid schwannomas. Most of the time, they occur at random for unclear causes. Certain genetic factors that increase your risk of developing specific tumor types are linked to about 10% of instances.

Treatment options for Schwannoma

Stereotactic Radio Therapy: To eradicate tumors, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) employs many laser beams that are carefully focused. To avoid potential difficulties, your doctor could suggest SRS rather than surgery if the tumor is close to important blood vessels or nerves.


Cost Start From USD 5500 - USD 7500Explore Options

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: Brain stereotactic radiosurgery is another name for gamma knife radiosurgery. Since there is no incision made into the brain tissue, it is not surgery in the conventional sense. About 200 beams of focused radiation are directed straight at the vestibular schwannoma using specialized equipment. Because the radiation is precisely directed to the place where the rays converge, it has little influence on the other parts of the brain. The first-line treatment for tiny or medium-sized vestibular schwannomas is now Gamma Knife radiosurgery. According to one study, it is a safe and efficient therapeutic method that effectively cures vestibular schwannoma by stopping or shrinking the tumor in 97.1% of instances. Gamma knife radiosurgery is an outpatient procedure that can be done the same day, and most patients have either no side effects or very minor ones. Gamma Knife radiosurgery has two key advantages: it is almost painless, and the patient can resume their pre-treatment activities shortly after the procedure.


Cost Start From USD 4000 - USD 7000Explore Options

The following imaging studies can be used to diagnose a schwannoma:

  • MRI: A big magnet, radio waves, and a computer are used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a painless procedure that creates obvious pictures of the organs and structures inside your body. This imaging test is recommended to identify and diagnose schwannomas.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan creates images of the internal components of your body using computers and X-rays.
  • Ultrasound: Ultrasound produces live images or films of internal organs or other soft tissues by using high-frequency sound waves. Medical professionals can use ultrasound to find schwannomas beneath your skin

MediRehab (chain of Rehab center - part of MediGence provides comprehensive rehabilitation services designed to support arthritis patients in . These services include:

  • Nutritional Counseling: Diet plans to reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Personalized Therapy Plans: Individually tailored treatments for pain management and enhanced mobility.
  • Rehabilitation post Surgery: physiotherapy sessions focused on restoring joint function and strength.

Nutrition Guidance: Customized dietary plan for reducing inflammation and maintaining a healthy weight for overall recovery.

Healthcare professionals may suggest medications that treat nerve pain, such as pregabalin or gabapentin, tricyclic antidepressants

Instantly Connect with our Specialists

Doctor 1
Doctor 2
Doctor 3
Doctor 4
Doctor 5
Doctor 6
Doctor 7
Doctor 8

Hospitals for Schwannoma in India

Ruby Hall Clinic: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Ruby Hall Clinic

Pune, India

Ruby Hall Clinic located in Pune, India is accredited by NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Ruby Hall Clinic brought in Intensive Care and Coronary care units as early as in 1969.
  • It was the pioneer in terms of having achieved the first successful Kidney Transplant and test tube baby in Pune and being the initiator for Cobalt Therapy to ensure Cancer treatment.
  • Imaging advancement is being used in the hospital which is highly advanced known as Positron Emission Tomography.
  • Ruby Hall Clinic is in the possession of two cardiac cath labs and Linear Accelerators.
  • There are as many as 550 in-patient beds which is inclusive of 130 ICU beds.
  • Air Ambulance services are provided by the hospital.
  • There is a multi-organ transplant centre which began operations in the year 1997 and a Neuro Trauma stroke centre.
  • There is also the presence of an independent Stroke Trauma Unit which is fully equipped and enabled with the right units and healthcare personnel.
Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet

Hyderabad, India

Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet located in Hyderabad, India is accredited by NABH, NABL. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Multi-bed facility
  • High-tech labs, modular operation theaters
  • Advanced medical equipement
  • Dedicated rooms for patients with all facilities
  • State-of-art technology
  • 24/7 blood bank
  • State of the art Cardio-Thoracic Center with the latest CATH LAB Equipment & Modular steel operation theatre
  • Neurosurgery department equipped with an operating microscope, high-speed drill & stereotaxy
  • 24-hour Emergency services to take care of all kinds of trauma and other orthopedic emergencies
  • Pulmonology department equipped with modern gadgets.
  • One of the best PFT labs and bronchoscopy units
  • Nephrology services include Renal Biopsy, AV Fistulas, AV Grafts & Permanent Catheter Insertions, Hemodialysis; Temporary Access For Dialysis; Peritoneal Dialysis
  • Has a comprehensive cancer care unit following a trans-disciplinary & multi-modality approach
  • State-of-the-art services of Digital X rays, Flouroscopy, Ultrasonography, OPG, Mammography, CT 64 Slices, MRI, etc.
  • Airport Transfer Service
  • Scheduling Of All Medical Appointment
  • Processing Of Medical Second Opinion
  • Provide Language Interpreter
  • Special Dietary Needs / Religious Arrangement
  • Coordination Of Admissions Process
  • Cost Estimates For Anticipated Treatments
  • Foreign Exchange service
  • Billing and Finance Related Service
  • Providing Information Of Patient’s Relatives Back Home
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali

Ghaziabad, India

  • Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, is a leading multi-speciality hospital with 387+ beds and 37+ clinical specialities, offering advanced care in Cardiology, Neuro Sciences, Oncology, Orthopaedics, Transplants, Gastroenterology, and Reconstructive Surgery.
  • Supported by 389+ doctors and 1038+ trained staff, the hospital combines state-of-the-art technology, including robotic surgery and advanced imaging systems, with compassionate, patient-centred care.
  • Accredited by NABH and NABL, Max Vaishali is a trusted destination for both domestic and international patients seeking high-quality, integrated medical services.

Our Services to better your experience

Opinion & Option

We submit the most accurate opinion and options from one or more countries for your review

Consult Privately

Consult with a certified specialist privately on our telemedicine platform even before you decide to travel

Logistics

We handle flights, visas, transfers, and accommodation—so you can focus on your health.

Recovery

Our In-house rehabilitation service packages to better your recovery and treatment outcome

Why Choose India for Schwannomas Treatment?

Here are some of the reasons for choosing India:

  • Due to advancements in medical facilities, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques and immunosuppression therapy.
  • World-class experts include highly experienced doctors, JCI, and NABH-accredited healthcare institutions.
  • Compared to other countries, treatment in Indian hospitals is cost-effective.
  • Indian hospitals provide international patient services, including a multilingual support system.
  • Improved treatment methods and biological therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is treatable, yes. Schwannoma are usually not malignant, but if left untreated, they can develop and become more problematic. Some schwannomas can be removed without causing any damage to the surrounding nerve tissue, but if your tumor is large or deeply implanted, more surgery might be necessary.

The nation's healthcare institutions offer top-notch treatment alternatives, guaranteeing successful outcomes for many patients. Depending on the location and size of the tumor, treatment for Schwannomas in India is thought to be effective, with surgical options like microsurgery and minimally invasive Gamma Knife radiosurgery, especially for smaller tumors, allowing for good tumor control and preservation of important functions like hearing. To get the best results, it's imperative to seek treatment at a medical center with experienced neurosurgeons.

Yes, many Indian hospitals offer the following for Schwannoma treatment:

  • Advanced diagnostic tools like MRI, CT scan, electromyography, and PET scan for accurate Schwannoma
  • Skilled neurologist and surgeons for Schwannoma treatment.
  • Advanced gamma knife radiation therapy
  • Comprehensive post-surgery care and rehabilitation for long-term health benefit

Always consider the following factors when selecting Indian hospitals:

  • Hospitals that are accredited (authorised by JCI and NABH).
  • Patient reviews and success rates.
  • Hospitals that provide seamless care to patients from abroad.

The evidence that is currently available indicates that the success rate for treating Schwannoma in India is high, especially for vestibular schwannomas treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Studies have reported success rates ranging from 78.2% to 86.9%..

Depending on where the tumor is located, a doctor will probably perform a physical examination, order imaging tests like an MRI scan, and possibly perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. If your child has a schwannoma, you should look for symptoms such as a painless or painful lump that grows slowly, numbness or tingling in a specific area, one-sided hearing loss, dizziness, facial weakness, or pain.

Depending on the tumor's location, size, and treatment, a patient may experience long-term effects from a schwannoma such as tinnitus (ear ringing), balance issues, facial weakness or numbness, persistent hearing loss, and occasionally even trouble swallowing or moving their eye. However, most schwannomas are benign and slow-growing, so if they are properly diagnosed and treated, they rarely have a significant impact on life expectancy.

Providing a supportive environment, managing symptoms with medication and therapies as directed by the doctor, closely monitoring the child's seizures, seeking specialized care such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and being ready for any necessary surgical procedures, such as a hemispherectomy, are all part of caring for a child with Rasmussen's Encephalitis. Always check with your child's medical team for the best course of action.