Neurofibromatosis, Types 1 and 2
Patho:
Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a group of genetic disorders that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout
the body. While these tumors are usually non-cancerous (benign), they can sometimes become malignant
and may cause a range of health problems depending on their location and size.
Types/ classifications:
Neurofibromatosis type 1: known as von Recklinghausen disease, is characterized by multiple
subcutaneous nerve tumors. The tumors are benign but may be removed to relieve compression of the
nerves or for cosmetic reasons.
Neurofibromatosis type 2: described by tumors affecting the inner ear, cranial and peripheral nerves, and
brain tissue.
Manifestation:
TX: primary treatment is surgical intervention.
DX:
Care/ Assessment:
Bell’s Palsy
Patho: Acute paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve, which serves the face.
Types/ classifications:
Manifestation:
• Begins with pain behind the ear or on the face.
• Followed by a pulling sensation.
• Paralysis of the muscles on the affected side.
• Affected eyelids do not close.
• Taste is impaired.
• Eating may be difficult.
Most patients recover during a period of weeks or months, but some have residual weakness.
TX:
• Prednisone.
• Analgesic drugs.
Both drugs are used on a outpatient basis
DX:
Care:
• Artificial tears (if eyelids do not close).
• Closing the affected eye.
• Using an eye shield on the affected eye at night (to prevent drying of the cornea).
• Simple exercises to improve muscle tone when function returns: grimacing, opening, and closing
the eye, whistling, and puffing out the cheeks.
Assessment:
• Observation of symptoms: pain behind the ear/face, pulling sensation, facial muscle paralysis,
inability to close eyelids, impaired taste, difficulty eating.
• Sensitivity to the patient's concerns about the condition and their appearance.
