Symptoms
How We Can Help You
Neurofibromas are tumors that develop in the covering of peripheral and cranial nerves. Most neurofibromas are noncancerous, but a small percentage have a genetic mutation that leads to cancerous growth. Most neurofibromas are slow-growing and are not aggressive.
Treatment at an academic medical center which manages a high volume of neurofibromas is important for the best outcomes.
Stanford is a global referral center for neurofibromas and is at the forefront of developing new, minimally invasive procedures that treat them.
WHAT WE OFFER YOU FOR NEUROFIBROMAS
- Globally-recognized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of neurofibromas.
- Team-based treatment planning that brings together specialists from neurosurgery, head and neck surgery, neuroradiology, radiation oncology, neuropathology, audiology, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, and more.
- Access to advanced imaging including neuronavigation of the brain to help surgeons more clearly distinguish tumors from sensitive surrounding tissues.
- An active clinical research program dedicated to broadening options for the diagnosis and treatment of neurofibromas.
- Assistance from our International Medical Services team to plan your travel and accommodations.
Treatment Options for Neurofibromas
Recommendations for treatment depend on the size and location of the tumor, its rate of growth, and details of your overall health. Many neurofibromas do not require immediate treatment.
Active Surveillance
If you have a small tumor that isn’t causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend periodic MRI imaging without other interventions.
Surgery
If a tumor is larger than 3 centimeters or is causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery to microsurgically remove the tumor and prevent further injury to the brain and nerves.
Radiation Therapy
Small, slow-growing neurofibromas may be treated effectively with a form of radiation therapy called stereotactic radio surgery or CyberKnife. CyberKnife is a robotic system that was developed at Stanford. It delivers precise pulses of high-dose radiation to the target tissue, while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
Combination Treatment
Cancerous neurofibromas are treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Clinical Trials for Neurofibromas
Clinical trials evaluate new approaches, devices, or medications in the treatment of neurofibromas. Ask your doctor or clinical trials coordinator about available trials that may be additional options for your care.
To learn more about the clinical trials we offer, contact Maria Coburn at 650-736-9551.
What are Neurofibromas of the Skull?
Our Clinics
To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-497-7777