What is Neurofibromatosis?
Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a group of genetic disorders characterized by the development of tumors in the nervous system, skin, and other organs. These tumors, known as neurofibromas, can be benign or malignant and often lead to various health complications, including chronic pain, disfigurement, and potential neurological issues. NF is a complex condition that can affect multiple systems in the body, making it essential to promote awareness, research, and support for individuals living with NF.
What is Neurofibromatosis 1?
What is
Neurofibromatosis 1?
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a specific subtype of NF, is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the NF1 gene. It affects approximately 1 in 3,500 people worldwide and is characterized by the growth of tumors, often benign, along nerves throughout the body, leading to a range of symptoms and health challenges such as learning disabilities, skeletal abnormalities, and an increased risk of developing malignant tumors.
A recent study conducted at MD Anderson Cancer Center found that people with NF1 are at a greater risk of developing certain cancers and have a genetic predisposition to developing these cancers earlier in life. The study found that deadly malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) occurred at a rate of 15% among NF1 patients. The study also revealed that sarcomas, neuroendocrine tumors, ovarian cancer, and melanoma are associated with NF1, and the outcomes of these cancers for patients with NF1 is worse than for those in the general population.
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a specific subtype of NF, is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the NF1 gene. It affects approximately 1 in 3,500 people worldwide and is characterized by the growth of tumors, often benign, along nerves throughout the body, leading to a range of symptoms and health challenges such as learning disabilities, skeletal abnormalities, and an increased risk of developing malignant tumors.
A recent study conducted at MD Anderson Cancer Center found that people with NF1 are at a greater risk of developing certain cancers, and they have a genetic predisposition to developing these cancers earlier in life. The study found that deadly malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) occurred at a rate of 15% among NF1 patients. The study also revealed that sarcomas, neuroendocrine tumors, ovarian cancer, and melanoma are associated with NF1, and the outcomes of these cancers for patients with NF1 is worse than for those in the general population.
