Life expectancy in neurofibromatosis type 1

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On our other pages you will find information on the following topics:

  • Neurofibromatosis type 1
  • Symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 1
  • Neurofibromatosis type 2
  • Symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 2

Life expectancy and prognosis

Since the root cause If neurofibromatosis type 1 cannot be remedied, only the symptoms can be treated.
Most people with NF1 can lead a mostly normal life with only minor discomfort. Since the genetic mutation can take different forms and the Symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 1 can express themselves to different degrees and at different times is only about 10% that Life expectancy degraded.

Therapy for neurofibromatosis type 1

A Eliminating the cause is not possible with NF1 because it is a genetic disease.
That is why the Therapy is symptom-oriented. So can be cosmetically disruptive Neurofibromas removed. This should be done with caution, as the neurofibromas often grow back again. It can also Nerve damage come with the consequence of lasting Paralysis.
That is why you should only remove those from which there is a risk of malignant degeneration goes out. Regular preventive and check-ups are recommended. Should malignant changes occur, the therapy must be selected depending on the type and location of the tumor.

Surgical removal of the neurofibromas

The surgical removal of neurofibromas can happen in different ways and always depends on:

  • size
  • localization
  • Expansion <
    and
  • Vascular connection of the neurofibroma.

Larger, prominent neurofibromas are preferably removed with a scalpel and usually leave behind acceptable result on scars.

In addition to the doctor's scalpel, there is the option of one Removal by a laser. This is a very precise procedure and is particularly suitable for flat neurofibromas that are well connected to blood vessels.
A disadvantage of this procedure is that if the risk of infection increases and the healing process takes longer, scars often remain.

A third alternative is the so-called. Electrocautery. Here a needle is heated that can then be used to cut.

However, regrowth of the neurofibromas cannot be excluded by any of these methods.