Neurofibromatosis 1

Neurofibromatosis 1 is a condition where tumors grow on nerves throughout the body. This can cause multisystem disorders of the central nervous system, including in the brain, spinal cord and the cranial nerves. Symptoms may include:

• Light brown skin spots ("café au lait" spots)
• Growths under the skin
• Learning challenges
• Soft bones
• A curved spine

Treatment is designed to reduce symptoms. If tumors on or under the skin cause pain, they can be surgically removed. Surgery may also be used to remove tumors that are pressing on nerves or other organs.