Neurofibromatosis 2 Health Article

Definition

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)

Alternative Names

NF2; Bilateral acoustic neurofibromatosis; Central bilateral acoustic NF

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

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

Symptoms of NF2 include:

• Balance problems
• Cataracts at a young age
• Changes in vision
• Coffee-colored marks on the skin
• Facial weakness
• Headaches
• Hearing loss
• Ringing and noises in the ears

Signs and tests

Signs include:

• Brain and spinal tumors
• Hearing-related (acoustic) tumors
• Skin tumors

Tests include:

• Genetic testing
• Medical history
• MRI
• Physical examination

Treatment

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

Support Groups

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