Neurofibromatosis 1: Diagnosis and Management

Neurofibromatosis Type I and Stromal Tumor with a Multiple Digestive Localization

Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) is also known as von Recklinghausen disease. It is a genetic disorder that affects the growth and development of nerve cell tissue, which is characterized by a multisystem disorder and an increased risk for cancer. The incidence of gastroduodenal stromal tumor during Recklinghausen disease can reach 35% in autopsies and 5% in clinical cases. In our case, the diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type I was made in a middle-aged women initially diagnosed with a pancreaticoduodenal tumor.

Psychosocial Features of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 in Children and Adolescents

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common neurologic condition associated with a wide variety of developmental deficits that have an important impact on children and adolescents.

OBJECTIVE

This article aims to document the psychosocial features of NF1 and to report the interventions described to address the needs of pediatric patients with NF1.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted concerning the social life, mental health, and quality of life (QOL) of children and adolescents with NF1 as well as the psychosocial interventions addressed to this population.

RESULTS

Compared to unaffected children and adolescents of the general population, pediatric patients with NF1 have an increased risk of having social difficulties, mental health disorders, behavioral and emotional problems, as well as diminished QOL. Only 3 articles describe interventions within the NF1 population to address these difficulties.

CONCLUSION

There is a need to develop and assess psychosocial interventions for patients with NF1.