Neurofibromatosis is a neurological disorder caused by a single gene mutation. It has an inheritance base from parents, but it can also mutate unexpectedly. It affects 1 in every 2500 newborns and strikes all genders, and ethnic groups equally.

There are two prevalent kinds of disorders, NF1 and NF2. NF1 occurs in children, whereas NF2 occurs in young to older adults.

Type 1 Neurofibromatosis (NF1)

NF1 also called von Recklinghausen's disease, or peripheral neurofibromatosis. Chromosome 17 transmits the disease by mutation. It causes birthmarks or lesions to appear in different parts of the body. The lesions can be few or many thousands around the body on the surface or under the skin.

This is not the serious form of neurofibromatosis, although, it is possible that the lesions can become cancerous.

Type 2 Neurofibromatosis (NF2)

NF2, also called bilateral neurofibromatosis results mainly from a mutation of the NF2 gene. Chromosome 33 is responsible for the transmission of the mutation.

This form is more serious because tumors can form in the nervous system, and the spinal canal. There are acoustic tumors as well that can affect the hearing, and the sense of balance and body position. These symptoms can to late teens and individuals in their early 20's.

Schwannomatosis

This is a rarer form of the disease. It has a different genetic marker from NF1 or NF2, and accounting for about 15% of the diagnosis for neurofibromatosis. Patients can have tumors that can cause them to experience severe pain, numbness, tingling, plus a weakness in the toes and fingers.

Cures and Treatments

At this time, there is no known cure for the disease. There are, however, some treatments for the symptoms of NF1 or NF2.

NF1