Neurofibromatosis
Alternate Names : NF1, NF2, VonRecklinghausen's Disease, Phakomatosis, Neurocutaneous Disorder, Peripheral Neurofibromatosis, Bilateral Acoustic Neurofibromatosis, BAN
What can be done to prevent the disease?
At present, there is no known way to prevent NF once a child is born with the mutant gene,
but much research is being done. Genetic testing and counseling for affected families may be needed to
help parents make decisions about having children.
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
The effects of NF1 are mild to moderate in most people, but lead to learning disabilities in
about half of the people who have it. Other problems that may occur with NF1 and/or NF2 include:
high blood pressure
curvature of the spine, called scoliosis
poor formation of the long bones, such as the femur in the legs
speech problems
seizure disorders
cataracts
poor body image due to skin discolorations and tumors
blindness
deafness
cancer, though this is rare
What are the risks to others?
NF is not catching, but it can be passed on from a parent to a child genetically.
|
Set Homepage
Email Page
Favorites
Previous section
