Temporal Bone Tumors

What are Temporal Bone Tumors and Cancers?

The temporal bone is the part of your skull around and behind your ear. It protects the delicate structures responsible for hearing, balance, and facial movement. Most tumors arising from the ear canal and temporal bone are benign (not cancer), however, some may be cancerous. These conditions are rare and often require specialized care. Common causes include:

• Squamous cell carcinoma

• Basal cell carcinoma

• Paraganglioma (glomus tumor)

• Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma)

• Meningioma

• Endolympatic sac tumor

• Facial nerve tumors

Symptoms

• Ear pain

• Ear drainage

• Bleeding from the ear

• Hearing loss

• Dizziness

• Facial weakness or numbness (in more advanced cases)

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of tumor and how advanced it is. Options may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor

• Radiation therapy

• Chemotherapy for certain cancers

• Imaging and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis

Dr. Wong has a longstanding collaboration with a dedicated network of neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists who specialize in skull base conditions, ensuring that each patient receives a coordinated, individualized treatment plan.