Schwannoma

You may have a schwannoma for several years before getting diagnosed, as they grow slowly and often cause no symptoms at first. If you’re experiencing symptoms, your healthcare provider will likely order imaging tests. They may also find a schwannoma accidentally when reviewing imaging test results you had for another medical reason.

Imaging tests that can help diagnose a schwannoma include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI is a painless test that produces very clear images of the organs and structures within your body using a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed images. This is the preferred imaging test for locating and diagnosing schwannomas.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan uses X-rays and computers to produce images of the structures inside of your body.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time pictures or videos of internal organs or other soft tissues. Healthcare providers can use ultrasound to detect schwannomas under your skin.

Your healthcare provider may also perform a biopsy to check if the tumor is schwannoma. This involves taking a small sample from the tumor with a needle. An expert called a pathologist will study cells from the sample under a microscope and run other tests to see what kind of tumor it is.