Psychological aspects of von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF1)

Abstract

Neurofibromatosis is a devasting autosomal dominant disease which is extremely variable in its symptomatology, intensity, and progression. There have been numerous reports published about the physical aspects of neurofibromatosis, while psychological issues have been given little attention so far. The present article presents a review of the current knowledge concerning psychological aspects of neurofibromatosis. Information is provided relating to physical appearance, intellectual impairment, neuropsychological findings, learning disability, and psychiatric disorders.