Hello 36 yo male diagnosed 21mm right side

[Jason Griffin]

Hello,

I am just getting used to the idea of this AN in my head. I am so happy I found a place to talk to people that are or have gone through with what  I am.

My emotions are all over the place. What makes it worse, I have bi-polar type II/mixed and am not medicated.

I feel like I'm losing my mind.

(Hi and welcome.  Thank you for sharing your MRI view. Please know that it contains personal details that we do not post on this forum for your safety as internet trolls would be able to capture your personal information. You are more than welcome to share in PM (Site email option), thus, protecting your personal data.  Hang in there.  Thanks for understanding removal of the link. Phyl)

[michellef08]

Hi NB3K and welcome!
I found the best way for me to tackle the scary AN journey was to do as much research as I could. This forum is obviously a great start! The next best thing is to consult with specialists who are experienced with ANs. Each person's tumor is different in terms of size, location, symptoms, etc. Once you start learning about your individual tumor and your options, you will hopefully feel more in control (I know I did). My advice is to do as much research as you can tolerate, so you can make a treatment decision that feels right for you.

I would highly suggest sending your MRI to both House Clinic (Dr. Schwartz) and USC (Dr. Friedman) for a free phone consult:
https://www.houseclinic.com/consultation/acousticneuroma
http://acousticneuroma.keckmedicine.org
I had both of them remove my tumor (back when Dr. Friedman was working at House, but he has since moved on to USC), with extraordinary results! They preserved my hearing and I had zero balance or facial issues. They are extremely experienced with ANs!

I was 27 when diagnosed almost 3 years ago, and saw 2 local neurosurgeons as well as consulted with House. No one recommended radiation due to my young age, but there are also leading doctors who perform Cyber Knife or Gamma Knife (Chang at Stanford, Lunsford at Pittsburgh, etc.) that you may want to reach out to.

Good luck with your AN journey, we have all been through it so you are definitely not alone!

[v357139]

Hi and welcome.  I was very anxious during my journey, so I can understand if you are feeling a bit overwhelmed.  The good news is that we are all here for you.  My tumor was 35mm and I made it through.  You will make it also.  Do some research and learn about 1) Wait and watch, 2) Microsurgery, 3) Radiosurgery.  Those are the three major options.  Once you educate yourself, you will begin to feel some control.  Do some research, then bounce some ideas off the forum.  We are all here to help.  You will make it.  God bless, and let us know.