Definition
Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on the nerves of the brain and spine (the central nervous system).
See also neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1).
Images:
Alternative Names
NF2; Bilateral Acoustic Neurofibromatosis (BAN); Central Bilateral Acoustic NFCauses, incidence, and risk factors
NF2 is inherited, and the main risk factor is having a family history of NF2. Inheritance is autosomal dominant. This means that if one parent has NF2, any child of that parent has a 50-50 chance of having it.
Symptoms
- Hearing loss
- Ringing and noises in the ears
- Balance problems
- Cataracts at a young age
- Changes in vision
- Headaches
- Facial weakness
- Coffee-colored marks on the skin
Signs and tests
Signs include:
- Brain and spinal tumors
- Acoustic (related to hearing) tumors
- Skin tumors
Tests include:
- Physical examination
- Medical history
- MRI
- Genetic testing
Treatment
Most patients require surgery to remove tumors. Tumors also can be treated with radiation.
Support Groups
For information and support, see
Lots More Information:
| • | Neurofibromatosis-1 |
| • | Autosomal dominant |
Review Date:11/21/2005
Reviewed By: Christos Ballas, M.D., Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Reviewed By: Christos Ballas, M.D., Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
