Skull base tumors
These tumors are usually not “brain tumors” but may be tumors from the coverings of the brain (meningiomas) or tumors of the covering of nerves (schwannomas) among others.
Symptoms
- Changes in hearing
- Double vision
- Hearing a “whooshing” sound
- Partial or total loss of hearing
- Difficulties swallowing or voice changes
- Cognitive or personality changes
- Facial paralysis or facial numbness (tingling or loss of sensation)
- Balance issues
TYPES
- gloms
- meningioma
- schwannomas
- chordoma
- chondrosarcoma
Diagnosis and treatment
CT scan MRI scan
Treatment
- observation
- surgery
- focussed radiation
- combined surgery and radiation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What are skull base tumors, and why should you be concerned?
Skull base tumors are abnormal growths that occur at the base of your skull, where the brain meets the facial structures. These tumors can be benign or malignant, and their location makes them complex due to the proximity to critical nerves, blood vessels, and brain structures. Early recognition is essential to prevent complications such as vision problems, hearing loss, facial numbness, or difficulty swallowing.
How can your ENT team approach skull base tumors differently?
Your ENT specialists provide a comprehensive, personalized approach:
Detailed evaluation including medical history, neurological and ENT assessments.
Advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans to determine tumor size, location, and involvement with surrounding structures.
Multidisciplinary planning with neurosurgeons, radiologists, and oncologists to tailor treatment.
Minimally invasive surgical approaches when possible to reduce recovery time and preserve function.
This approach ensures that your care is precise, effective, and focused on minimizing risks while maximizing outcomes.
What symptoms should alert you to a possible skull base tumor?
You should be vigilant for symptoms such as:
Persistent headaches or pressure at the base of the skull.
Vision changes, double vision, or loss of visual acuity.
Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Facial numbness, weakness, or pain.
Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing in severe cases.
If you notice any of these symptoms, timely evaluation can significantly impact treatment success.
What treatment options are available for skull base tumors?
Treatment depends on tumor type, size, and location:
Surgical removal: Often the primary option, performed with advanced techniques to minimize impact on surrounding structures.
Radiation therapy: Used when surgery isn’t feasible or as an adjunct to surgery.
Chemotherapy: For specific malignant tumor types.
Observation: In selected slow-growing benign tumors with careful monitoring.
Your ENT team will recommend the safest and most effective plan for your specific situation.
Can age or overall health affect skull base tumor treatment?
Yes, age and health status can influence treatment options and recovery:
Younger patients may tolerate more aggressive surgical interventions.
Older adults or patients with comorbidities may require modified approaches to reduce surgical risk.
Discussing these factors with your specialists ensures a plan tailored to your needs.
What are the potential complications if a skull base tumor is untreated?
Untreated tumors can lead to severe complications including:
Permanent nerve damage affecting facial movement, vision, or hearing.
Obstruction of critical structures leading to breathing or swallowing difficulties.
Malignant tumors spreading to other areas.
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing these outcomes.
How can you support recovery after skull base tumor treatment?
Recovery involves both medical and lifestyle considerations:
Follow your ENT team’s post-surgical or post-treatment instructions carefully.
Attend all follow-up appointments for monitoring and early detection of recurrence.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and gentle physical activity as advised.
Manage stress and seek support from family or counseling services if needed.
These measures support optimal recovery and long-term health.
When should you seek urgent care regarding skull base tumors?
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden or worsening symptoms such as:
Severe headache not relieved by usual measures.
Rapid vision loss or sudden double vision.
Acute facial weakness or numbness.
Sudden difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing.
Prompt evaluation can prevent serious complications and improve treatment outcomes.