What is neurofibromatosis?

When people talked about the men of the elephant, Joseph Merrick, at the beginning of the 80s, the general consensus was that he had neurofibromatosis. The later tests of his case and even his skeletons led experts to determine that he probably had a mysterious disease called Proteus syndrome. However, neurofibromatosis is also a real disease that causes tumor growth on nerves and other abnormalities.

There are two types of neurofibomatosis. NF1 is a less serious version of the disease and occurs in one of the 4,000 births. It is often diagnosed soon due to the presence of "Au Lait" on the skin. Neurofibromas are generally small and can be removed if they cause cosmetic disfigure or pushing vital organs.

NF1 Patients may sometimes have scoliosis such as children or other bone deformities. However, most people with such type neurofromatosis will live normal lives, and many of them will have little if any problems relating to Kporucha. Some children will have seizures when they areYoung, or possible speech damage, but medicines and speech therapy have proven to be very effective in helping these children normally live.

Neurofibromatosis type 2 is a different story. NF 2 affects about one of every 50,000 births and is more serious at all levels. In NF2, patients can develop nerve tumors in the ears, which eventually causes deafness. Tumors can also appear on the spinal cord or brain. Fortunately, only about 3 to 5 percent of neurofibromes have ever become cancer. However, parents must control their child's tumors, and if one shows noticeable growth, parents should immediately call their pediatrician.

children who have NF1 and remain healthy in adulthood, have a good chance to stay healthy and live normal life. Support groups are available, both for those who have neurofibromatosis and those who have children with this disease.