Neurofibrmatosis - Treatment

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Treatment

There is no cure for neurofibromatosis and the goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms. Painful cutaneous and subcutaneous tumors and those that occur on visible areas of the body may be removed surgically. Surgery also may be performed to remove schwannomas and nerve tissue tumors (neurofibromas) that cause pain, sensory loss, and loss of function.

In Type 2 neurofibromatosis, surgery using magnification and very small instruments (microsurgery) may be performed to remove tumors of the vestibulocochlear nerve.

When surgery cannot be performed without risking damage to nerve function, high energy x-rays (radiation) may be used to shrink tumors.

Neurofibromatosis often results in psychological and social issues for patients and their families. Counseling and support groups may help patients cope with the disease.

Prognosis

Prognosis for patients with neurofibromatosis depends on the type. Type 1 NF may reduce life expectancy by up to 15 years, usually due to malignant tumors. Early diagnosis and treatment (e.g., surgery, radiation) may reduce mortality rates.

Prognosis for patients with Type 2 NF depends on age of onset and the number and location of tumors. Prompt diagnosis and treatment (surgery) may improve life expectancy to more than 15 years following diagnosis.

Prevention

Neurofibromatosis cannot be prevented. People with a family history of the disease may choose to undergo genetic testing and counseling to determine if they are at risk for transmitting NF to their offspring.

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