Duke is one of the country's premier centers for management of skull base tumors. Our highly trained neurotologists, neurosurgeons, and radiation oncologists have the experience and dedication needed to successfully evaluate and treat skull base tumors.

The skull base is at the interface of the ear and other sensory structures, the brain, and the upper neck. It contains the cranial nerves, which control functions such as vision, smell, taste, hearing, balance, facial movement, voice, swallowing, and other critical, sensory functions.

Hearing loss and balance problems are the most common symptoms of skull base tumors. Weakness of the face, vision problems, and headaches among other symptoms can also occur.

While skull base tumors are most commonly benign, non-cancerous tumors, tumor growth or resection can negatively impact sensory functions.

Commonly Treated Tumors

At Duke, we treat a variety of skull base tumors, including:

• Acoustic neuromas
• Chordomas and chondrosarcomas
• Epidermoid cysts
• Glomus tumors
• Meningiomas
• Neurovascular compression disorders
• Pituitary tumors

Treatments for Skull Base Tumors

Successful management of skull base tumors requires the expertise of all members of a team of accomplished physicians. All patients receive a comprehensive evaluation by our multidisciplinary team of skull base experts, and the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual patient is then made.

We offer the following treatments for skull base tumors:

• Medication management
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery

Contact Us

Call 888-ASK-DUKE (888-275-3853) to schedule an appointment with a skull base tumor expert at Duke.