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.