What are cutaneous neurofibromas?
The cutaneous neurofibroma (cNF) is a neoplasm of peripheral nerve Schwann cells that presents as a soft nodule in the dermis of the skin at virtually any location in the body.
What is the life expectancy of a person with neurofibromatosis?
If there are no complications, the life expectancy of people with NF is almost normal. With the right education, people with NF can live a normal life. Although mental impairment is generally mild, NF1 is a known cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Learning disabilities are a common problem.
Are neurofibromas cancer?
Neurofibromas are benign (noncancerous) tumors that grow on nerves in the body. Most neurofibromas occur in association with a genetic disorder. Solitary neurofibromas can also occur in otherwise healthy people; these are called sporadic neurofibromas.
Are cutaneous neurofibromas benign?
Discrete lesions are often referred to as dermal or cutaneous neurofibromas. cNF are benign and, unlike plexiform neurofibromas (pNF), are not known to have any malignant potential.
Does neurofibromatosis worsen with age?
Neurofibromas may increase in number with age. Bone deformities. Abnormal bone development and a deficiency in bone mineral density can cause bone deformities such as a curved spine (scoliosis) or a bowed lower leg. Tumor on the optic nerve (optic glioma).
Is NF1 a autoimmune disease?
Various autoimmune diseases that have been reported in association with NF1 include multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, membranous glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy, mixed connective tissue disease, juvenile arthritis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, bullous pemphigoid, and Graves disease.
How many cafe au lait spots are normal?
Café au lait spots are harmless and normal, with some people having anywhere from one to three spots. But sometimes, these spots can indicate an underlying genetic problem.
Can a cutaneous neurofibroma be a malignant tumor?
Cutaneous neurofibromas are not known to become malignant. Malignant glioma is a type of tumor that can occur (although rarely) in adults with NF1.
How are neurofibromas treated in patients with NF1?
Treatment consists of observation and, if necessary, surgical removal. Researchers are looking into various medicines to shrink neurofibromas in patients with NF1. Neurofibromas are benign (noncancerous) tumors that grow on nerves in the body. Most neurofibromas occur in association with a genetic disorder.
What are the symptoms of neurofibromas under the skin?
Neurofibromas appear as one or more lumps on or under the skin. They may be painful or itch, but many do not cause any symptoms. Neurofibromas growing deep in the body can cause pain, numbness, tingling or weakness if they press on nerves.
What kind of disease is neurofibromatosis type 1?
Neurofibromatosis is not a single medical disorder but refers to three different conditions involving the development of tumors that may affect the brain, spinal cord, and the nerves that send signals between the brain and spinal cord and all other parts of the body. Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), historically called von Recklinghausen disease