Neurofibromatosis 1. Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is usually diagnosed during childhood. Signs are often noticeable at birth or shortly afterward and almost always by age 10. Signs and symptoms are often mild to moderate, but can vary in severity.

Can neurofibromatosis show up later in life?

They can be present at birth or may not become noticeable for many years. Although some cutaneous neurofibromas arise in childhood, most start appearing during or after the teenage years.

What is the difference between NF1 and NF 2?

NF2 is caused by a mutation on chromosome 22 and involves a protein called merlin, which is thought to be involved in cell shape and structure. NF1 is caused by a mutation on chromosome 17 and involves a protein called neurofibromin, which relates to cell growth and cell division.