neurofibromatosis type 1

An inherited condition that affects the nervous system. It affects the development and growth of neurons (nerve cells), causes tumours (neurofibromas) to grow on nerves and may produce other abnormalities in muscle, bone and skin. Sometimes cancerous tumours called malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours may grow along the nerves.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 increases the risk of neuroendocrine tumours, soft tissue sarcoma, brain tumours, leukemia and neuroblastoma.

Also called von Recklinghausen disease.