Neurofibromatosis Type 2
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is less common than NF1, however, it still impacts roughly 1 in every 25,000 people.
NF2 causes benign, slow-growing tumours to grow on cranial, spinal and peripheral nerves, such as the auditory nerve.
To diagnose NF2, a doctor will look for:
1. Vestibular schwannomas (tumour on the acoustic nerve)
2. A direct family link to NF2
3. Ependymoma, meningioma, schwannoma of non-vestibular nerves or juvenile cataract or retinal abnormalities.
A large amount of research is being funded into NF. So far there is no cure but many clinical trials are underway.
Signs & Symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 2
Signs of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) are often present in childhood but are easily missed, especially among children who do not have a family history of NF2. Symptoms of NF2 are thus usually noticed in the second decade of life.
Common signs and symptoms of NF2 include:
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Balance issues
- Visual impairment (less common)
- Seizures (less common)
- Arm/leg weakness (less common)
When it comes to diagnosing NF2 and seeking medical treatment, this is best managed at a specialty clinic. However, when it comes to hearing loss and tumours on the acoustic nerve, our Audiologist is equipped to monitor the impact of these on your hearing loss, as the tumour grows or changes.
If you or someone you know is suffering from hearing loss as a result of NF2, do not hesitate to book in to see us for timely and quality advice. Where appropriate, we have a large external referral network, so we will be able to point you in the right direction, so that your needs are met, depending on your specific case.
References:
1. https://www.ctf.org/get-involved/make-nf-visible#
2. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/patient-caregiver-education/fact-sheets/neurofibromatosis-fact-sheet#3162_9