Neurofibromatosis (NF) type 1 (NF-1) is a disease characterized by the growth of noncancerous tumors called neurofibromas. These are located on or just underneath the skin, as well as in the brain and peripheral nervous system. They may also form in other body parts, including the eye and orbit. Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic abnormality that affects the cell growth of neural tissue, leading to tumor growths that impact the skin, nervous system, eyes and other organs.
Plexiform neurofibromas are the most common subtype encountered in the orbit and are closely associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). They typically present early in life and appear clinically as infiltrative, multinodular masses growing along the course of peripheral nerves. The eyelids may become thicker and irregularly shaped because of the growth of a neurofibroma. Children with this eyelid problem are at…
