MAY is NF awareness month








What Is NF?

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on nerves anywhere in the body at anytime.

Two genetically distinct forms of neurofibromatosis have been identified:

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1), formerly called von Recklinghausen's Disease or peripheral neurofibromatosis is thought to occur in 1 of 2,500 births. The gene for NF-1 is on chromosome 17. NF-1 can be characterized by

Multiple cafe-aulait colored spots on skin
tumors of varying sizes on or under the skin
Lisch nodules on the iris of the eyes
freckling in the underarm or groin area
possible learning disabilities
possible bone deformities, including scoliosis
possible optic glioma
possible family history of NF
symptoms sometimes present at birth
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2 or bilateral acoustic NF) Is estimated to occur in 1 of 30,000 births. The gene for NF-2 is on chromosome 22. NF-2 can be characterized by:

vestibular schwannomas on both hearing nerves, often resulting in hearing loss and/or balance problems
cataracts or other visual problems at an early age
symptoms can appear as early as 2 years, but usually during or after puberty
other tumors of the central nervous system including the brain and spinal cord tumors of the skin.