Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Resource type: Frequently Asked Questions — Date posted: January 14th, 2012 Number of views: 1801

What are the characteristics of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1)?

Neurofibromatosis type 1:

Pupil's with NF1 may;

be slightly shorter than their peers
have slightly larger head circumference
may have several birthmarks (café au lait patches) on their skin
may have other physical health problems that might limit the activities they can do (some examples are loss of vision, epilepsy, or a problem with the backbone)
have mild learning difficulties
have delayed speech or behavioural difficulties

There is an increased incidence of attention disorders (ADD/ADHD) and social communication disorders.

NF1 causes benign tumours (non cancerous lumps) to grow on nerves.

These start to appear around puberty, sometimes earlier and sometimes later.

They can cause cosmetic problems.