Cervical neurofibromas in children with NF-1

Background. Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are at increased r isk of developing plexiform neurofibroma throughout the body, including the cervical soft tissues. However, the incidence of cervical soft tissue tumo rs and the value of screening MR for children with NF1 are not known. Purpose. The purposes of this study were to determine the incidence and cli nical significance of cervical tumors seen on MR imaging in children with N F1. Materials and methods. A retrospective review of the brain and orbit MR wit h cervical images obtained on 95 children who meet the NIH consensus criter ia for NF1 and who are followed at our neurofibromatosis clinic was carried out. Results. Cervical tumors were found on MR imaging in 21 of 95 (22 %) childr en. Of 21 children with cervical tumors, 14 children were determined to be surgical candidates. In nine children, MR imaging altered the clinical mana gement by demonstrating tumors for which surgery was indicated, but the tum ors were not suspected prior to MR imaging. Conclusion. Cervical tumors are commonly seen in children with NF1. MR imag ing may demonstrate a significant number of tumors that require surgery, bu t were not suspected prior to MR imaging.