How is neurofibroma treated?
Aug 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, the occurrence of neurofibromas may be caused by genetic factors, hormonal fluctuations, solitary neurofibromas, neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), and other related factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, determine the specific type, and then, under the guidance of a physician, improve the condition through regular monitoring, surgical treatment, pharmacological therapy, and other appropriate management strategies.
Generally, the occurrence of neurofibromas may be caused by genetic factors, hormonal fluctuations, solitary neurofibroma, neurofibromatosis type 1, neurofibromatosis type 2, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, determine the specific type, and then improve the condition through regular monitoring, surgical treatment, medication, and other methods under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Genetic factors: Mutations in the NF1 or NF2 genes can be inherited by offspring, leading to neurofibromas, often with a family history of the disease. Regular imaging examinations such as MRI and CT should be conducted annually to monitor changes in tumor size and number. Exposure to radiation and chemical toxins should be avoided to reduce the risk of malignant transformation.
2. Hormonal fluctuations: Elevated growth hormone during puberty or estrogen levels during pregnancy may stimulate tumor growth, causing existing tumors to enlarge or new ones to develop. follow-up examinations every 3-6 months during puberty and pregnancy are recommended to monitor tumor changes.
3. Solitary neurofibroma: Usually presents as a single tumor, commonly found in peripheral nerves of limbs, without significant genetic background. The growth is slow, and some cases are asymptomatic. If asymptomatic, follow-up every 6 months is sufficient. If the tumor compresses nerves causing pain or numbness, surgical removal of the neurofibroma should be performed to relieve nerve compression.
4. Neurofibromatosis type 1: Besides café-au-lait spots and neurofibromas, it may also involve bones and eyes. When skin tumors affect appearance or compress tissues, surgical removal of cutaneous neurofibromas can be performed to improve appearance and relieve compression. When accompanied by epileptic seizures, medications such as carbamazepine tablets, sodium valproate sustained-release tablets, and phenytoin sodium tablets should be used according to medical advice to control seizures.
5. Neurofibromatosis type 2: Characterized typically by bilateral acoustic neuromas, which can easily cause hearing loss and facial paralysis. In early stages of acoustic neuroma, surgical removal of the tumor can be performed to preserve hearing and facial nerve function as much as possible. For cases unsuitable for surgery, gamma knife therapy can be used to control tumor growth.
In daily life, friction and pressure on tumor sites should be avoided to prevent rupture or infection. Skin should be kept clean, and loose, breathable clothing should be chosen. Diet should include increased intake of high-quality protein and vitamins to enhance immunity.
