Neurofibromatosis type 1 MRI

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Moises Romo M.D.

There are no CT scan findings associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, however, a MRI may be helpful in the diagnosis of complications. MRI is the preferred study method when studying the central nervous system (CNS). The use of routine screening brain MRI in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 is controversial.

• There are no MRI findings associated with neurofibromatosis type 1.^[1] However, a MRI may be helpful in the diagnosis of complications of neurofibromatosis type 1, which include:
  • Optic pathway gliomas. Early detection may prevent vision loss and improve outcomes.^[2]
  • Intracranial mases^[3]
  • Vascular tumors^[4]
  • Chiari malformations^[3]
  • Pheochromocytomas^[3][5]
  • Benign hamartomas^[3]
  • Changes in ventricular size and hydrocephalus^[3]
  • Mediastinal tumors^[3]
  • Spinal cord masses^[3]
  • Deep plexiform neurofibromas^[6]

• MRI is the preferred study method when studying the central nervous system (CNS).
• The use of routine screening brain MRI in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 is controversial. Many physicians prefer to order a MRI at the moment of the diagnosis and repeat later only if suspicious symptoms arise^[3]

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