Neurofibromatosis, also called as von Recklinghausen’s disease, is a genetically inherited disease of nerve tissue. It causes tumors to grow on nerves (neurofibromas) that lie on or under the skin anywhere in the body. It affects the development and growth of nerve cell tissues. The tumors are usually benign (non cancerous). Even so, in some cases they can be disfiguring. They tend to grow in many numbers and varying size, over the period of years.
There are two types of neurofibromatosis:-
Neurofibromatosis is a genetically inherited disease. If either parent has neurofibromatosis, then there are 50% chance of having the disease in their children.
Neurofibromatosis also appears in families with no previous history of the condition. It results from change (mutation) in the genetic material of the sperm or egg during the time of conception.
Freckles: These are small light brown spot on the skin which becomes more pronounced after sun exposure. In neurofibromatosis cases these freckles are found on uncommon places such as groin region, under breast and armpits.
Diagnosis is mainly done by physical examination and enquiring about the family history of neurofibromatosis. One should have at least two of the following signs and symptoms to diagnose with neurofibromatosis.
MRI and X- ray are done for the screening of tumor and skeletal abnormalities. In NF2 - audiometry test for hearing loss.
Most of the time it does not need treatment but if the tumors are painful, disfiguring, growing and compressing the adjacent tissues may need treatment.
Surgery: Large tumor may be removed surgically. Chances of growth of tumor at the same place, after the surgery, are very high. The doctor may remove a tumor and also treat bone abnormalities by surgical means.
Radiation: Radiotherapy is used to shrink tumors.
Chemotherapy: Some drugs are useful in treating tumors.
Counseling - Some patient and family members may experience emotional or psychological issues (sadness, shock, anger, frustration, embarrassment etc.) as a result of neurofibromatosis. They become isolated and withdraw themselves from the society. They may have emotional setback about their appearance.
Family counseling and genetic counseling may help people with neurofibromatosis to be comfortable with themselves and their family members.
Homoeopathy help as a supporting treatment by reducing the nodular growth and help to boost the body immunity.
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