COVID-19 and Acoustic Neuroma
A Statement from a member of the ANA Medical Advisory Board

Currently, there is no evidence that having a vestibular schwannoma by itself will increase one's risk of acquiring COVID-19. Having a vestibular schwannoma should not change your global immune response to increase the risk, or protect from acquiring the virus. There is also currently no evidence to suggest that having previous stereotactic radiation or surgery for a vestibular schwannoma, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, will impact the future risk of acquiring the virus either. However, currently, vestibular schwannoma treatment is being postponed at many medical centers across the country to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread. This delay in treatment decreases the risk of spread to patients (themselves and others) and healthcare workers. At many centers, only vestibular schwannoma cases that are considered "urgent" or "emergent" are receiving treatment at the present time. However, the current situation is very fluid, and resources and recommendations vary across the country.  Please read the CDC webpage on COVID-19 to receive more information about symptoms of COVID-19 infection and ways to reduce your risk of acquiring the virus. 

This information pertains to patients with a single vestibular schwannoma, not patients with neurofibromatosis type 2. If you have any specific questions about your individual condition, please contact your doctor. 

Matthew L. Carlson, MD
Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN