Signs and symptoms of NF2 mainly depend on the location of a tumor or tumors growing against or on a nerve(s). Some symptoms may not involve a tumor, such as, Cafe Au Lait skin spots. The illustration below outlines the possible tumor types in which an individual with NF2 can possess. NF2 affects each individual differently and NOT ALL of the tumors, signs and symptoms, listed may occur. This is only a reference list.
Brain Tumors
- Schwannomas on Cranial Nerves I – XII; most notably, Bilateral Vestibular Schwannomas of Cranial Nerve VIII
- Meningiomas
- Gliomas
Sign and Symptoms:
- Headaches/Pain
- Hearing Loss
- Balance and Coordination (Vertigo, Unsteady Gait)
- Facial Paralysis/Weakness/Numbness (Inability to smile, frown, blink, chew, dry mouth)
- Speech Difficulties
- Dysphagia (Swallowing Issues – Choking, Coughing while eating or drinking)
- Vision Issues
- Intracranial and Intraorbital Tumors
- Cataracts
- Diplopia (Double Vision)
- Dry Eye (Inability to produce tears)
- Oscillopsia (Fuzzy Vision)
- Papilledema (Swelling of Optic Nerve)
Spinal Cord Tumors
- Schwannomas
- Meningiomas
- Ependymomas
- Astrocytomas
Sign and Symptoms:
- Drop Foot
- Scoliosis
- Tingling/Numbness of Limbs
- Pain
Peripheral Nerve Tumors
- Brachial Plexus Tumors (Upper Arm/Neck)
- Sciatica Nerve Tumors (Lower Back/Hip/Upper Leg)
- Peroneal & Tibia Nerve Tumors (Lower Leg)
- Median Nerve Tumors (Arm)
- Subcutaneous Schwannomas of the Dermis (skin)
Sign and Symptoms:
- Hand / Drop Foot
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Muscle Weakness / Wasting
- Tingling/Numbness of Limbs
- Pain