Question

Lesions to CN VIII (vestibulocochlear) may cause which of the following?

1) Sensorineural hearing loss
2) Loss of balance
3) Both sensorineural hearing loss and loss of balance
4) None of the above

Answer 1

Lesions to CN VIII can cause both sensorineural hearing loss and loss of balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lesions to the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) can cause both sensorineural hearing loss and loss of balance. The vestibulocochlear nerve is responsible for carrying equilibrium and auditory sensations from the inner ear to the medulla. Problems with balance, such as vertigo, and deficits in hearing may both point to problems with the inner ear.