Neurofibromatosis 2Definition: 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).
Alternative Names: NF2; Bilateral Acoustic Neurofibromatosis (BAN); Central Bilateral Acoustic NF
Causes, 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 www.nf.org
Expectations (prognosis):
Calling your health care provider:
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