O que diferencia o linfoma do schwannoma vestibular?

Introduction: Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is a benign tumor originating in the Schwann cells surrounding the vestibular nerve. Its initial symptoms include progressive hearing loss in one ear, representing an intracranial threat due to the mass effect. On the other hand, cerebral lymphomas, although rare, present with a variety of focal and non-focal neurological symptoms. The association of rapidly progressive unilateral hearing loss, tinnitus and vestibular dysfunction suggests VS. Objective: To search for cases of lymphoma mimicry in relation to vestibular schwannoma, to describe the differential diagnosis and events associated with it. Method: Integrative review conducted with methodological rigor, gathering evidence for clinical practice. It was performed in the PubMed and Medline databases, using the Boolean operator "AND" to associate relevant descriptors. Result: Of the 96 articles found, 8 were selected based on the guiding question. Original studies in English or Spanish were included. Early diagnosis of VS is based on magnetic resonance imaging and hearing tests. Radiotherapy is a viable alternative. Furthermore, intracanalicular lesions of the internal auditory nerve are frequently VSs, but differential diagnoses should consider other possibilities, such as facial neuroma. The radiological features of VSs are not specific, and differential diagnoses need to be considered. Conclusion: Differentiating lymphomas located in the cerebellopontine angle from VSs is crucial to avoid inappropriate treatments. Radiosurgery proposed for presumed small VSss may be inappropriate if the diagnosis is another one, such as lymphoma. Therefore, it is essential to obtain an accurate histopathological diagnosis to guide appropriate treatment.