There are no CT scan findings associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, however, a CT scan may be helpful in the diagnosis of complications. The use of routine screening brain CT scans in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 is controversial.

• There are no CT scan findings associated with neurofibromatosis type 1.^[1] However, a CT scan 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]
  • Chiari malformations^[3]
  • Pheochromocytomas^[3][4]
  • Benign hamartomas^[3]

• Changes in ventricular size and hydrocephalus^[3]
• The use of routine screening brain CT scans in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 is controversial. Many physicians prefer to order a CT scan at the moment of the diagnosis and repeat later only if suspicious symptoms arise^[3]