Neurofibromatosis 2Definition: Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) is a genetic disorder in which tumors form on the nerves of the brain and spine (the central nervous system). See also: Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1)
Alternative Names: NF2; Bilateral acoustic neurofibromatosis; Central bilateral acoustic NF
Causes, incidence, and risk factors: NF2 is passed down through families in an autosomal dominant fashion. This means that if one parent has NF2, any child of that parent has a 50-50 chance of having it. The main risk factor is having a family history of the condition.
Symptoms: Symptoms of NF2 include: - Balance problems
- Cataracts at a young age
- Changes in vision
- Coffee-colored marks on the skin
- Facial weakness
- Headaches
- Hearing loss
- Ringing and noises in the ears
Signs and tests: Signs include: - Brain and spinal tumors
- Hearing-related (acoustic) tumors
- Skin tumors
Tests include: - Genetic testing
- Medical history
- MRI
- Physical examination
Treatment: Most patients need surgery to remove tumors. Tumors also can be treated with radiation .
Support Groups: For information and support, visit www.nf.org .
Expectations (prognosis):
Calling your health care provider:
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