Best Facial Paralysis Treatment, Neurofibromatosis Surgery Cost, Rhinoplasty Plastic Surgeon – Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Glendale

626-765-6885

  • Dr. Panossian
  • NEUROFIBROMATOSIS OVERVIEW
  • Andre Panossian, MD
  • Surgery for NF
    • Surgical Excision
    • Electrodesiccation
  • Types of NF
    • Neurofibromatosis Type 1
    • Neurofibromatosis Type 2
    • Schwannomatosis
  • PHOTO GALLERY
  • BACK TO MAIN SITE
  • CONTACT US
  • 626-765-6885
Best Facial Paralysis Treatment, Neurofibromatosis Surgery Cost, Rhinoplasty Plastic Surgeon – Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Glendale
Request Consultation

626-765-6885

  • Dr. Panossian
  • NEUROFIBROMATOSIS OVERVIEW
  • Andre Panossian, MD
  • Surgery for NF
    • Surgical Excision
    • Electrodesiccation
  • Types of NF
    • Neurofibromatosis Type 1
    • Neurofibromatosis Type 2
    • Schwannomatosis
  • PHOTO GALLERY
  • BACK TO MAIN SITE
  • CONTACT US
  • 626-765-6885
  • Dr. Panossian

Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Home » Neurofibromatosis » Types of NF » Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Type 1 Neurofibromatosis (NF1) (also known as von Recklinghausen’s disease) is the more common of the two major types of the condition. It occurs in approximately 1 in 3000 individuals. The NF1 gene exists on chromosome 17, creating a specific type of regulatory protein for nerves. A mutation in this gene results in dysregulation and uncontrolled cell growth.

(626) 765-6885

Request Consultation
Café-au-lait spots on patient with neurofibromatosis.
Café-au-lait spots on patient
with neurofibromatosis.
KEY FEATURES FOR DIAGNOSIS

(more than 2 of the following must be present)

  • More than 6 café-au-lait macules
  • More than 2 neurofibromas or 1 plexiform neurofibroma
  • Optic glioma
  • More than 2 Lisch nodules (iris of eye)
  • Armpit or groin freckling
  • Bone involvement
  • Parent or sibling with Type I NF

Almost all people with NF-1 will have multiple café-au-lait spots from early childhood. These are flat patches on the skin that are darker than the surrounding area and have a characteristic light coffee-colored look. These spots increase in size and number as the individual grows. Freckles in the underarms and groin will develop later in childhood.

Neurofibromas are the hallmark of NF-1. These are  noncancerous (benign) tumors that are usually located on or just underneath the skin. They can be located virtually anywhere in the body including the nerves along the spinal cord. In a very small percentage of individuals, these tumors can become cancerous. These are called malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. There is also an increased risk of developing other cancers such as leukemia and brain tumors.

Lisch nodules are benign growths that occur along the colored part of the eye (or, the iris). They are seen typically during childhood but do not interfere with vision. However, another type of tumor called an optic glioma may result in reduced or complete loss of vision. These are benign tumors that grow along the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting signals from the eye to the brain. In some instances, these tumors must be removed.

There are other problems that can arise in patients with NF-1. High blood pressure, scoliosis, short stature, and learning disabilities.

Diagnosing NF-1 is usually done on physical exam and history. The criteria above are used to accurately identify people with NF-1. In some instances, genetic testing may be performed to identify the gene mutation that exists on chromosome 17. The normal variant of the gene is responsible for creating a protein called neurofibromin. This substance is created by the supporting cells that line and nourish nerves. It functions to suppress tumor formation in these cells. When a mutation occurs in its gene, a non-functional protein is produced, allowing uncontrolled growth of tumors.

In general, the inheritance pattern of NF-1 is autosomal dominant, meaning each mutated copy of the affected gene is passed on to the next generation. This is true in 50 percent of individuals who have been newly diagnosed. However, the remaining 50 percent result from a new mutation with no known family members exhibiting the condition.

Example of Lisch nodules on iris of patient with neurofibromatosis.
Example of Lisch nodules on iris
of patient with neurofibromatosis.
Child with bulging eye due to optic glioma in neurofibromatosis.
Child with bulging eye due to
optic glioma in neurofibromatosis.

What to do if you have been diagnosed with NF-1

If you or a family member are diagnosed with Type 1 neurofibromatosis, the first step is referral to a Neurofibromatosis Clinic or a neurologist or geneticist with expertise in the field. After a thorough workup, there may be a requirement to see a neurosurgeon if there are critical brain masses identified or an orthopedic surgeon for spine issues. Frequently, a plastic surgeon with specialization in neurofibromatosis is required to address tumors that are causing symptoms such as pain or disfigurement. Dr. Panossian has treated patients with neurofibromatosis for over a decade and recognizes the unique requirements of this patient population. Our office can assist you with the proper referral.


Author

This article was written by Dr. Andre Panossian. Last Modified May 2, 2022

CONTACT US TODAY!

By submitting this form I agree to the Terms of Use
Hidden
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

ASPS AAPS ABSP FACS Top Doctor AAP

Best Facial Paralysis Treatment, Neurofibromatosis Surgery Cost, Rhinoplasty Plastic Surgeon.
Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Glendale

  • About
  • Photo Gallery
  • Cosmetic
  • Reconstructive
  • Patients
  • Testimonials
  • Location
  • Contact Us

Andre Panossian, MD

39 Congress St., Suite 402
Pasadena, CA 91105

Phone:  626-765-6885

5.0 STARS FROM 34 REVIEWS

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
39 Congress St., Suite 402, Pasadena, CA 91105(opens in a new tab)

Copyright © 2022 Andre Panossian, MD. All rights reserved.

Phone: 626-765-6885

Stock photos included on this website may include models who are not actual patients and do not necessarily reflect actual results.

Terms | Privacy | Sitemap