Neurofibromatosis
NF1 AND NF2
Our multi-disciplinary neuroscience team can diagnose neurofibromatosis and treat complications of the condition
About
NF1: this is a “mistake” in the gene on chromosome 17. Complications can vary in severity and to the individual.
NF2: these are benign nervous system tumours in the brain and spine, causing hearing loss, deafness and mobility problems.
Need to know
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Symptoms of Neurofibromatosis icon plus
NF1 can cause a wide-range of symptoms and affect the skin, eyes and development. It also affects the brain, causing migraines and a small risk of brain tumours and epilepsy in children. The most characteristic sign of NF1 is coffee-coloured blotches on the skin called 'café au lait' spots. People with NF1 may also develop peripheral nerve tumours. This is where an existing peripheral nerve tumour becomes cancerous. Symptoms of an MPNST include:
- an existing neurofibroma growing larger
- chronic pain
- finding it hard to breathe
- weakness, numbness or tingling in the arms and legs
- urinary and bowel incontinence
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Diagnosis icon plus
Both NF1 and NF2 are diagnosed through physical examinations and tests. Your consultants will discuss your symptoms with you and help to make a diagnosis. They may order a number of tests, including:
- Imaging tests: these can display brain and spinal cord tumours and bone abnormalities.
- Genetic tests: it's possible to identify NF1 and NF2 in the womb. Your consultant will give you further information.
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Potential treatment options icon plus
While there's no cure for neurofibromatosis, its symptoms and complications can be treated. If peripheral nerve sheaf tumours are pressing down on soft tissue and causing nerve damage, they can be removed through surgery. Cancerous tumours will need further treatment with an oncology team. Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help to determine the best approach for you.
Our consultants
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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Chiswick Medical Centre
Bond House
347-353 Chiswick High Road
London W4 4HS
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344