What is NF?

NF is the group name for Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), NF2-related-Schwannomatosis (NF2) and Schwannomatosis (SWN). 

All of the conditions cause nerve tumours and all involve health complications.

These tumours are usually non-cancerous (benign). They can be internal, external, big or small. Sometimes they cause no harm and sometimes they can provoke complications. 

NF is indiscriminate; it affects all races, ages and genders equally. It is a dominant genetic condition, which means that it can be passed on in families from one generation to the next through genetic inheritance. There is a 50% chance that someone with NF may pass it on to their children. 

Similarly, about half of NF cases recorded have no previous family history of the condition. In other words, it has occurred totally 'out of the blue'. People who are born with NF with no family history are considered to have 'spontaneous gene mutation'. Putting it simply, NF results from a 'spelling mistake' in a person's genetic make-up.

NF is an incredibly variable condition and might vary from one person to another even within the same family. Some people may be affected very mildly and have very few health complications. Others may have many more complications, or more serious complications that can seriously impact daily life and restrict what they can do. 

With a condition that varies so much, it is important to learn some basic facts about nerve tumours and to understand when you need to seek help from your doctor.

This is a large part of why Nerve Tumours UK exists; to support people with NF and to help you manage your condition and live your life to the full.

Disclaimer: AI Overviews on Neurofibromatosis

Information generated by online AI tools regarding Neurofibromatosis (including NF1, NF2-SWN, or SWN) should always be treated with caution. AI-generated responses are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Such content may be inaccurate, incomplete, outdated, simplified, or not fully aligned with current clinical guidelines and peer-reviewed medical evidence.

Neurofibromatosis is a complex neuro-genetic condition that requires individualised assessment and management by qualified healthcare professionals. Decisions about diagnosis, monitoring or treatment should always be made in consultation with your medical care, those that are familiar with your specific medical history as a patient.

AI-generated information should only ever be used for general educational purposes and not be relied upon as established medical fact. Always seek the advice of your GP, treating specialist or allied healthcare professionals. Don't forget you can also call our National NF Helpline Mon-Wed-Fri 9am to 5pm on 07939 046 030 or Freephone 0300 1021722 if you have any questions on NF or related medical conditions.