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- Neurofibromatosis type 1
- Symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 1
- Neurofibromatosis type 2
- Symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 2
Life expectancy and prognosis
Since the cause of neurofibromatosis type 1 cannot be eliminated, only the symptoms can be treated. Most people with NF1 can lead a predominantly normal life with only minor symptoms. Since the genetic mutation can take on different forms and the symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 1 can develop to different degrees and at different times, life expectancy is reduced to only about 10%.
Therapy for neurofibromatosis type 1
It is not possible to eliminate the cause of NF1, as it is a genetic disease. Therefore the therapy is symptom-oriented. Thus, cosmetically disturbing neurofibromas can be removed.
This should be done with caution, because often the neurofibromas grow back again. In addition, nerve damage can occur with the consequence of permanent paralysis. Therefore, only those should be removed from which there is a risk of malignant degeneration.
A regular preventive and control examination is recommended. Should malignant degeneration occur, the therapy must be chosen according to the type and location of the tumor. The surgical removal of neurofibromas can be done in different ways and is always dependent on: Larger, prominent neurofibromas are preferably removed with a scalpel and usually leave an acceptable result of scars.
In addition to the doctor’s scalpel, there is the possibility of removal by laser. This is a very precise procedure and is particularly suitable for flat neurofibromas that are well connected to vessels. A disadvantage of this procedure is that scars are often left behind due to an increased risk of infection and a longer healing process.
A third alternative is the so-called electrocautery. Here a needle is heated and then cut. A regrowth of neurofibromas cannot be excluded by any of these procedures.
- Size
- Localization
- Expansion
- Vascular connection of the neurofibroma.
