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Neurofibromatosis 2

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Central nervous system
Central nervous system

Alternative Names    Return to top

NF2; Bilateral acoustic neurofibromatosis; Central bilateral acoustic NF

Definition    Return to top

Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) is a genetic disorder in which tumors form on the nerves of the brain and spine (the central nervous system).

See also: Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1)

Causes    Return to top

NF2 is passed down through families in an autosomal dominant fashion. This means that if one parent has NF2, any child of that parent has a 50-50 chance of having it.

The main risk factor is having a family history of the condition.

Symptoms    Return to top

Symptoms of NF2 include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Signs include:

Tests include:

Treatment    Return to top

Most patients need surgery to remove tumors. Tumors also can be treated with radiation.

Support Groups    Return to top

For information and support, visit www.nf.org.

Update Date: 10/25/2007

Updated by: Chad Haldeman-Englert, M.D., Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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