Brain Conditions

Neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis is a condition in which one or more tumors develop along a nerve. Sufferers are born with the condition or develop it due to a gene mutation. It is usually benign but can be serious depending on the size and location of the tumors. There are several types of neurofibromatosis:

• Neurofibromatosis Type 1 – Also called von Recklinghausen disease, this condition typically affects the nerves of the peripheral nervous system (the nerves that travel throughout the body). It is the most common type of neurofibromatosis and usually appears early in life. In some cases, the tumors grow quite large, affecting more than one nerve. These tumors often develop on the skin, and less commonly on the eye, brain, or spinal cord.
• Neurofibromatosis Type 2 – Tumors develop on the nerve for hearing in this condition, and usually do so on both sides. The primary symptom is hearing loss that can eventually lead to deafness.

Treatment for neurofibromatosis depends on tumor characteristics and includes medication, radiation, and surgery. Surgical procedures include tumor removal and treatment for severe scoliosis that results from tumors on the spinal cord.