Acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. This nerve is responsible for hearing and balance, and when a tumor forms, it can lead to symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and balance issues. The exact cause of acoustic neuroma is not well understood, but it is associated with a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis type II. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like MRI scans, and treatment options may include monitoring, surgery, or radiation therapy, depending on the tumor's size and symptoms.