LET'S TALK ABOUT NEUROFIBROMATOSIS WITH KIM BISCHOFF

Call in and join us---646-595-3032.

Welcome to the show. Today on Hammer 96.7, Hammer and I will be talking about a genetic disorder that is close to my heart---Neurofibromatosis. And we welcome Executive Director of the NF Network into the studio to tell us more about this.

What is Neurofibromatosis?

Neurofibromatosis encompasses a set of distinct genetic disorders that causes tumors to grow along various types of nerves.  NF can also affect the development of non-nervous tissues such as bones and skin. Neurofibromatosis causes tumors to grow anywhere on or in the body

Neurofibromatosis (NF) has been classified into three distinct types: NF1, NF2 and Schwannomatosis. 

Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1): also known as von Recklinghausen NF or Peripheral NF. Occurring in 1:3,000 births, web characterized by multiple cafe-au-lait spots and neurofibromas on or under the skin. Enlargement and deformation of bones and curvature of the spine (scoliosis) may also occur. Occasionally, tumors may develop in the brain, on cranial nerves, or on the spinal cord. About 50% of people with NF also have learning disabilities. 

Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2): also known as Bilateral Acoustic NF (BAN), is much rarer occurring in 1:25,000 births. NF2 is characterized by multiple tumors on the cranial and spinal nerves, and by other lesions of the brain and spinal cord. Tumors affecting both of the auditory nerves are the hallmark. Hearing loss beginning in the teens or early twenties is generally the first symptom. To learn more, check out the website.

Join us in the second hour for headline news, gossip and crazy talk. If you would like to call in and join us, the number is 646-595-3032.