The Simple Guide to Neurofibromatosis: Treatment and Related Diseases

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a group of genetic disFree Downloads that affect the nervous system. NF causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. These tumors can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, disfigurement, and neurological problems.

There are three main types of NF:

• NF1 is the most common type of NF. It affects about 1 in 3,000 people. NF1 causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. These tumors can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
  

  A Simple Guide to Neurofibromatosis, Treatment and Related Diseases (A Simple Guide to Medical Conditions)

  by Kenneth Kee

  5 out of 5

  Language	:	English
  File size	:	426 KB
  Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
  Screen Reader	:	Supported
  Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
  Word Wise	:	Enabled
  Print length	:	117 pages
  Lending	:	Enabled

  FREE
  • Café-au-lait spots (light brown birthmarks)
  • Freckling in the armpits and groin
  • Lisch nodules (small bumps on the iris of the eye)
  • Optic gliomas (tumors of the optic nerve)
  • Learning disabilities
  • Behavioral problems
  • Seizures
• NF2 is a less common type of NF. It affects about 1 in 25,000 people. NF2 causes tumors to grow on the Schwann cells, which are the cells that cover the nerves. These tumors can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
  • Hearing loss
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Facial paralysis
  • Weakness and numbness in the arms and legs
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Balance problems
• Schwannomatosis is a rare type of NF. It affects about 1 in 40,000 people. Schwannomatosis causes tumors to grow on the Schwann cells, but these tumors are usually not cancerous. Schwannomatosis can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
  • Numbness and weakness in the arms and legs
  • Pain
  • Disfigurement
  • Difficulty walking

NF is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. In some cases, genetic testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

There is no cure for NF, but there are a variety of treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove tumors
• Radiation therapy to shrink tumors
• Chemotherapy to kill tumor cells
• Targeted therapy to block the growth of tumor cells
• Clinical trials to test new treatments

There are a number of support groups and organizations that can provide information and support to people with NF and their families. These groups can help people to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, learn about new treatments, and find financial assistance.

NF is a complex and challenging condition, but there is hope. With the right treatment and support, people with NF can live full and productive lives.

A Simple Guide to Neurofibromatosis, Treatment and Related Diseases (A Simple Guide to Medical Conditions)

by Kenneth Kee

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	426 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	117 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE