Dermal neurofibromas

NF1 got its name from one of its more common features, the development of benign (non-cancerous) tumors, called neurofibromas. Dermal neurofibromas are bump-like tumors that grow under the skin. Since they grow around nerves, neurofibromas can be very painful.

• Do dermal neurofibromas ever become cancerous? Dermal neurofibromas do not become cancerous.
• When do they show up? They can appear at any age, but they usually begin to show up in late childhood or early adolescence.
• How many dermal neurofibromas do people get? The number can vary, from one to hundreds.
• Can they be removed? Yes, they can be removed by a plastic surgeon.
• How common are they? Nearly all people with NF1 have dermal neurofibromas by the time they reach adulthood.