Neurofibromatosis Resources


Photographs

    Photos which demonstrate different visible aspects of Neurofibromatosis, Type 1

    Note:   The photos on this page are amateur photos, taken by me.   They are intended solely to give the average person an idea of what some of these aspects of the disease look like, and should not be used as references for making a diagnosis of NF-1.

    Cafe au Lait Spots

    Image of wrist with large cafe au lait spot. This image shows a rather large cafe au lait (CAL) spot which extends nearly to the first knuckles on the back of the hand, and about 2 inches above the wrist.
    Click on picture for a larger image.


    Image of wrist from palm side, showing large cafe au lait spot. Here is the same CAL, from the palm side of the hand and arm.   Many CALs resemble large freckles, and aren't as extensive as this one.
    Click on picture for a larger image.


    Neurofibroma Tumors

    Image of chest, showing neurofibromatomas and pectus excavatum (sunken chest). This photo shows a moderate number of small to medium neurofibroma tumors.   Another condition sometimes associated with NF-1 is pectus excavatum, or sunken chest, which is a congenital deformity of the ribcage.   For more information on pectus excavatum, visit this very informative site.
    Click on picture for a larger image.


    Image of back, showing small neurofibroma tumors. Here are more small to medium-sized neurofibroma tumors, along with some smaller cafe au lait spots.   You may also be able to see some curvature of the spine - this individual has scoliosis, too.
    Click on picture for a larger image.


    Lisch Nodules

    Image of lisch nodules on cornea of eye. Lisch nodules are harmless, brown pigmented areas of the iris (the colored part of the eye).   They resemble little freckles.   They're difficult to see on this picture, but it's the best I could do for now.
    Click on picture for a larger image.


    Other Image Resources

    The following photo is large and may be slow to load:

  • Cafe au Lait Spots and Neurofibromas - University of Iowa College of Medicine, Dept. of Dermatology


    Neurofibromatosis Resources / Carol