Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Brain Tumours Explained
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder that affects the development of nerve tissue. This condition increases the risk of developing various tumours, particularly in the brain.
Common Brain Tumours in NF1
- Astrocytomas are the most frequently observed brain tumours in individuals with NF1. These tumours arise from astrocytes, a type of glial cell in the brain.
- While other brain tumours can occur in NF1 patients, such as optic pathway gliomas (a specific type of astrocytoma), astrocytomas, in general, are the most common diagnosis within the NF1 brain tumour syndrome context.
- Acoustic neuromas (schwannomas) and meningiomas are more commonly associated with Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a different genetic condition. Medulloblastomas are typically found in younger children and are less directly linked to NF1 compared to astrocytomas.
Therefore, astrocytoma is the most common type of brain tumour associated with NF1.
Important Questions from Brain & Nervous System Surgery
Which of the following chromosomal abnormalities are associated with brain tumours?
1. Neurofibromatosis type 1
2. Neurofibromatosis type 2
3. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
4. Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Consider the following clinical features:
1. Raised ICP
2. Seizures
3. Focal deficit
4. Headache
Which of the above clinical features are related to most brain tumours?
Upper motor neuron lesions are characterized by which of the following?
1. Increased tone spasticity
2. Hyperreflexia
3. Absent plantar response
4. Motor weakness
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A comatose patient after sustaining severe head injury has been admitted in neurosurgical ICU. Which of the following parameters should ideally be maintained in this patient ?
1. $pCO_2 = 4.5 – 5.0$ kPa ($33-38$ mm Hg)
2. MAP = $80 – 90$ mm of Hg
3. $pO_2 > 11$ kPa ($> 80$ mm Hg)
4. $Na^+ < 130$ meq/L
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- A patient with suspected head injury is brought to the emergency following road traffic accident. At the time of examination, patient is conscious with GCS 14/15 and stable vitals. There is bleeding from right ear and CSF leak from nose. Bruising is present behind the right ear. The most probable clinical diagnosis in this patient is
