International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

What is a benign tumor that can distort signals sent to the brain and may result in ringing in the ears?

1. Ossicular fixation

2. Acoustic neuroma

3. Barotrauma

4. Cholesteatoma

The correct answer is: Acoustic neuroma

A benign tumor that can distort signals sent to the brain and may result in ringing in the ears is an acoustic neuroma. This type of tumor develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sound and balance information from the inner ear to the brain. Since it can interfere with the normal function of this nerve, it can lead to auditory symptoms such as tinnitus, which is the perception of ringing or other noises in the ears. Acoustic neuromas grow slowly and are typically non-cancerous, which differentiates them from malignant tumors. While other conditions related to ear abnormalities can cause similar symptoms, none directly identify as a tumor like the acoustic neuroma does. For instance, ossicular fixation involves the bones in the middle ear, barotrauma refers to injuries caused by pressure changes, and cholesteatoma is an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear that can disrupt hearing. However, the specific link between a benign tumor impacting signal transmission to the brain and causing tinnitus is characteristic of acoustic neuromas.