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Diagnosis

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 Ìýforefront of developing new, minimally invasive procedures that treat them.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU FOR NEUROFIBROMAS

  • Globally-recognized expertiseÌýin the diagnosis and treatment of neurofibromas.
  • Team-based treatment planningÌýthat 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 imagingÌýincluding neuronavigation of the brain to help surgeons more clearly distinguish tumors from sensitive surrounding tissues.
  • An active clinical ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½ programÌýdedicated to broadening options for the diagnosis and treatment of neurofibromas.
  • Assistance from our International Medical Services teamÌýto 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.

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Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA) to Skull Base
Play Video | 0:34
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA) to Skull Base
ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½â€™s Chief of Skull Base Surgery, Dr. Juan Fernandez-Miranda, explains how Endoscopic Endonasal surgery is accomplished to carefully correct conditions behind the eyes, nose, and even in the brain. This video is intended for use by staff of ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½. No representatives or warranties are made for outside use. Not for reproduction or publication without permission. Published November 2020 ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½ © 2020

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. CyberKnifeÌýis 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

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Open Clinical Trials

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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.

Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.
View Closed Clinical Trials Diagnosis

What are Neurofibromas of the Skull?

Diagnosis for Neurofibromas of the Skull

If symptoms raise suspicion of a neurofibroma in the skull base, your doctor may recommend an MRI with and without contrast. Neurofibromas of the skull base usually enhance with contrast. In some cases, the tumors will cause hemorrhages or cysts that are more clearly seen without contrast.

Our Clinics

Skull Base Surgery Program
Skull base surgery is a highly-specialized field that addresses tumors and other abnormalities on the underside of the brain or base of the skull.
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Make An Appointment

To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-497-7777