A rare genetic disorder that may lead to hearing loss

Kottayam-based Sylvia John’s daughter is 18 years old and is studying for graduation. Two months ago, she had experienced a humming sound inside her ears. And there was also a slight hearing loss. The girl consulted a neurologist.

A scan revealed that she had a growth on both sides of her ear nerve. It is called Schwannoma. According to the doctor she developed those symptoms because of the growth and said there is a possibility that it can be a genetic condition.

The growth is on the inner ear nerve that helps with hearing and is called Schwannoma. In fact, Schwannoma can be there in any nerve in the body. This type of tumour is very rare.

Having said that it is often not as dangerous as cancer but having it on both sides at such an early age can indicate a genetic disorder. There is a need to check if it is a genetic disease called neurofibroma type 2.

A blood test can be done for this. It would be best if you see a genetic specialist for an opinion.