Cochlear (Intralabyrinthine) Schwannoma
- Intralabyrinthine schwannomas are rare. More commonly seen are acoustic schwannomas, which are found in the internal auditory canal or the cerebellopontine angle cistern.
- Clinical features: hearing loss, tinnitus, imbalance, vertigo, and aural fullness
- Key Diagnostic Features: On high-resolution T2-weighted/CISS images, they appear as focal filling defects replacing the normal high-signal-intensity fluid. Homogeneous enhancement is seen following contrast administration.
- DDx: Labyrinthitis, labyrinthitis ossificans, hemorrhage
- Rx: Watchful waiting, radiation, surgery (though avoided as much as possible)
