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symptoms

The symptoms of a skull base tumor can vary widely depending on its location. For example, a skull base tumor at the front of the skull may cause headaches and vision changes, while a tumor at the back of the skull may cause neck pain and hearing loss. What’s more, these symptoms may not become noticeable until the tumor has grown to the point of pressing on nerves, blood vessels or other critical brain structures.

Some of the more common symptoms of a skull base tumor include:

  • Headaches
  • Blurry or double vision
  • Vision loss
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Hearing loss
  • Tinnitus
  • Loss of balance
  • Hoarseness
  • Facial pain, numbness or paralysis
  • Altered sense of smell
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Memory loss

While having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have a skull base tumor, it could point to another health condition. Therefore, it’s best to see a physician who can provide a prompt evaluation.

Treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center

Moffitt Cancer Center diagnoses, treats and manages skull base tumors in our highly specialized Neuro-Oncology Program. Our patients have access to a full spectrum of innovative therapies, including clinical trials and minimally invasive surgeries, as well as many different supportive care services. Our multispecialty team includes:

  • Medical oncologists
  • Neurologists
  • Neurosurgeons/Neurosurgical Oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Neuropathologists
  • Neuroradiologists

These specialists collaborate to develop an individualized, comprehensive treatment plan for each patient to ensure the best possible outcome and quality of life.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Michael Vogelbaum, Program Leader, Department of Neuro-Oncology.

To request an appointment at Moffitt Cancer Center, please call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.