Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a type of neurofibromatosis, which is a condition that affects your skin and nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves). NF1 affects how often certain cells grow in your body. This leads to the formation of benign (noncancerous) tumors. These specifically are nerve tumors called neurofibromas. Tumors form on the nerves in your brain, spinal cord and skin. The most common symptom of NF1 is multiple café au lait spots. Symptoms can also affect your eyes and bones, too.

You might hear your healthcare provider refer to NF1 as Von Recklinghausen disease.

How common is neurofibromatosis type 1?

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is the most common form of neurofibromatosis. It accounts for about 96% of all cases of the condition. NF1 affects an estimated 1 in 3,000 births worldwide annually.