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Types, symptoms, and treatment of neurofibromatosis
Neurofibromatosis is a genetic condition that affects the nervous system. The condition causes tumors, called neurofibromas, to form anywhere in the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These tumors are usually non-cancerous, but in some cases, they can be cancerous. Mutation in certain genes is the cause of neurofibromatosis. There are multiple types of neurofibromatosis, and here we’re looking at symptoms of each type and exploring different treatment options. Types and symptoms Neurofibromatosis is categorized into three types, and different symptoms characterize each type. Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) NF1 is the most common type of neurofibromatosis. Signs and symptoms of NF1 are often seen in early childhood, in most cases, shortly after birth. The severity of the symptoms can vary from one person to another. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of NF1 include the following. Light brown spots on the skin, also called cafe au lait spots Freckles in the armpits or groin area Soft, tiny bumps on or under the skin Lisch nodules, or small brown spots on the iris of the eye Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) NF2 is less common than NF1 but more serious. People with NF2 often notice signs and symptoms in their late teenage years.
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