Differences in Quality of Life for Acoustic Neuroma Patients

Abstract

Objective: Using the disease-specific, validated Penn Acoustic Neuroma Quality of Life (PANQOL) survey we proposed the following study objectives: 1) Understand the demographics for patients with acoustic neuromas undergoing conservative management verses stereotactic radiosurgery (gamma knife). 2) Determine if there is a difference in quality of life for these patient groups.

Method: A retrospective chart review of acoustic neuroma patients who completed a PANQOL survey between the dates of October 1, 2010 and January 1, 2012 was performed. A total of 76 patients (38 conservative, 38 gamma knife) were included. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and PANQOL data for the 2 groups were statistically analyzed.

Results: Patient age, sex, percentage of extracanalicular tumors, and time elapsed from diagnosis to the PANQOL survey were not significantly different for the 2 groups. There was a statistically significant difference in tumor size between the 2 groups (CON 8.59 mm vs GK 16.45 mm, P ≤ .001). The differences in PANQOL composite scores for hearing, balance, facial nerve symptoms, pain, anxiety, and energy were not statistically significant. However, there was a statistically significant difference in the general composite score (CON 5.97 vs GK 5.32, P = .015).

Conclusion: Despite significantly larger tumors, patients undergoing gamma knife experience a similar quality of life when compared to patients who are being conservatively managed. The use of disease-specific quality of life measures, such as the PANQOL, will contribute to the development of “best evidence” treatment strategies for patients with acoustic neuromas.