What is neurofibromatosis, what causes Adam Pearson’s condition, what are the symptoms and is there a cure?
NF1 is a genetic condition people are born with - but they may not develop symptoms until later in life
NEUROFIBROMATOSIS affects around one in 3,000 people – with symptoms ranging in severity.
Here’s everything you need to know about TV presenter Adam Pearson’s condition, if there’s a cure and what causes it…
What is neurofibromatosis?
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a condition which causes non-cancerous tumours to grow along someone’s nerves.
People are born with the condition, although symptoms can develop gradually over a number of years.
Campaigner and TV presenter Adam Pearson, who you may recognise from The Undateables or Beauty And The Beast: The Ugly Face of Prejudice, helped bring the condition into the public eye.
What are the symptoms of neurofibromatosis?
NF1 typically presents itself as pale, coffee coloured patches – or soft, non-cancerous bumps either on or under the skin.
The condition can also cause learning difficulties.
Sometimes the growths become cancerous, developing into malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours, although this is less common.
What causes neurofibromatosis?
NF1 is caused by a genetic mutation – which means the nerve tissue isn’t properly controlled.
It’s passed on from the parent in 50 per cent of cases.
Although genetic tests can be carried out during pregnancy, most cases are diagnosed after birth.
Is there a cure for neurofibromatosis?
There’s currently no cure for NF1, but the condition should be regularly monitored.
Treatment can involve surgery, to remove tumours and improve bone abnormalities, medication to control secondary conditions like blood pressure, and therapy for behavioural problems.
In most cases, people with NF1 should be able to live a full life.
But the risk of developing serious problems like cancer can reduce life expectancy by up to 15 years.
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