Neurofibromatosis
The neurofibromatoses are genetic disorders that cause tumors to grow in the nervous system. The tumors begin in the supporting cells that make up the nerves and the myelin sheath--the thin membrane that envelops and protects the nerves. These disorders cause tumors to grow on nerves and produce other abnormalities such as skin changes and bone deformities. Although many affected persons inherit the disorder, between 30 and 50 percent of new cases arise spontaneously through mutation (change) in an individual's genes. Once this change has taken place, the mutant gene can be passed on to succeeding generations. Scientists have classified the disorders as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), and schwannomatosis, a type that was once considered to be a variation of NF2. NF1 is the more common type of the neurofibromatoses. In diagnosing NF1, a physician looks for changes in skin appearance, tumors, or bone abnormalities, and/or a parent, sibling, or child with NF1. Symptoms of NF1, which may be evident at birth and nearly always by the time the child is 10 years old, may include light brown spots on the skin ("cafe-au-lait" spots), two or more growths on the iris of the eye, a tumor on the optic nerve, a larger than normal head circumference, and abnormal development of the spine, a skull bone, or the tibia. NF2 is less common and is characterized by slow-growing tumors on the eighth cranial nerves. The tumors cause pressure damage to neighboring nerves. To determine whether an individual has NF2, a physician looks for eighth nerve tumors, cataracts at an early age or changes in the retina that may affect vision, other nervous system tumors and similar signs and symptoms in a parent, sibling, or child. The distinctive feature of schwannomatosis is the development of multiple schwannomas (tumors made up of certain cells) everywhere in the body except on the vestibular branch of the 8th cranial nerve. The dominant symptom is pain, which develops as a schwannoma enlarges or compresses nerves or adjacent tissue. Some people may develop numbness, tingling, or weakness in the fingers and toes.
Treatment
Surgery is often recommended to remove the tumors. Some NF1 tumors may become cancerous, and treatment may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy also may be used to control or reduce the size of optic nerve tumors when vision is threatened. Some bone malformations can be corrected surgicallyFor NF2, improved diagnostic technologies, such as MRI, can reveal tumors as small as a few millimeters in diameter, thus allowing early treatment. Surgery to remove tumors completely is one option but may result in hearing loss. Surgery also can correct cataracts and retinal abnormalities. There is no currently accepted medical treatment or drug for schwanomatosis, but surgical management is often effective. Pain usually subsides when tumors are removed completely. Genetic testing is available for families with documented cases of NF1 and NF2 but such testing for schwannomatosis currently does not exist.
Prognosis
In most cases, symptoms of NF1 are mild, and individuals live normal and productive lives. In some cases, however, NF1 can be severely debilitating and may cause cosmetic and psychological issues. The course of NF2 varies greatly among individuals. In some cases of NF2, the damage to nearby vital structures, such as other cranial nerves and the brain stem, can be life-threatening. Most individuals with schwannomatosis have significant pain. In some extreme cases the pain will be severe and disabling.
Research
Several years ago, research teams located the exact position of the NF1 gene on chromosome 17. The product of the NF1 gene is a large and complex protein called neurofibromin, which is primarily active in nervous cells as a regulator of cell division. Intensive efforts have let to the identification of the NF2 gene on chromosome 22. The NF2 gene product is a tumor-suppressor protein called merlin. Ongoing research continues to discover additional genes that appear to play a role in NF-related tumor suppression or growth. Other research is aimed at understanding how the genetic mutations that cause the benign tumors of NF1 also cause nerve cells and nerve networks to form abnormally during fetal development, which later result in the learning disabilities and cognitive deficits of children with the disorder. Additional research is aimed at understanding the natural history of tumors in NF2 and determining possible factors that may regular their growth patterns. The Interinstitute Medical Genetics Research Program at the NIH Clinical Center conducts NF2 family history research. Using specimens from some of the families, scientists have isolated and sequenced the NF2 gene and have described two different patterns of clinical features in NF2 patients. Investigators are continuing to study these patterns to see if they correspond to specific types of gene mutations.
Organizations
Neurofibromatosis Network
Non-profit organization made up of independent state and regional chapters that provide support and services to NF families. Provides patient/family and public education, supports research, publishes a newsletter, and sponsors meetings and chapters nationwide.
213 S. Wheaton Avenue
Wheaton, IL 60187
admin@nfnetwork.org
http://www.nfnetwork.org/
Tel: Wheaton
Acoustic Neuroma Association
Provides information and support to patients diagnosed with or treated for acoustic neuroma or other benign tumors affecting the cranial nerves.
600 Peachtree Parkway
Suite 108
Cumming, GA 30041
info@anausa.org
http://www.anausa.org
Tel: Cumming
Fax: 770-205-0239/877-202-0239
Children's Tumor Foundation
Non-profit medical foundation dedicated to improving the health and well being of individuals and families affected by the neurofibromatoses. Sponsors scientific research; promotes the development of clinical activities; develops public awareness programs; and provides support services and referrals for patients and families. Formerly known as the National Neurofibromatosis Foundation.
120 Wall Street
16th Floor
New York, NY 10005
info@ctf.org
http://www.ctf.org
Tel: New York
Fax: 212-747-0004
March of Dimes
Works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects and infant mortality through programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy.
1275 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605
askus@marchofdimes.com
http://www.marchofdimes.com
Tel: White Plains
Fax: 914-428-8203
Content Provided By
NINDS Disorders is an index of neurological conditions provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This valuable tool offers detailed descriptions, facts on treatment and prognosis, and patient organization contact information for over 500 identified neurological disorders.
