Definition
Neurofibromatosis-1 is an inherited disorder in which nerve tissue tumors (neurofibromas) form in the skin, bottom layer of skin (subcutaneous tissue), and nerves from the brain (cranial nerves) and spinal cord (spinal root nerves).
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
NF1 is an inherited disease. If either parent has NF1, each of their children has a 50% chance of having the disease.
NF1 also appears in families with no previous history of the condition, as a result of a new gene change (mutation) in the sperm or egg. NF1 is caused by abnormalities in a gene for a protein called neurofibromin.
Pictures & Images
Neurofibroma
Neurofibroma is a tumor or growth located along a nerve or nervous tissue. It is an inherited disorder. If left unchecked, a neurofibroma can cause severe nerve damage leading to loss of function to the area stimulated by that nerve.
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Neurofibromatosis-1: Overview, Cause
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Neurofibromatosis-1: Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Neurofibromatosis-1: Treatment
Review Date : 8/7/2008
Reviewed By : Diana Chambers, MD, EdD, Certified Genetics Counselor (ABMG), Charter Member of the ABGC, Univresity of Tennessee, Memphis, TN. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
