June 8th is World Brain Tumor Day. American Brain Tumor Association explains a brain tumor as a growth of abnormal cells that form in the brain. These growths can be cancerous or benign. Often the first signs of brain tumors are headaches although many experience a wide variety of have symptoms such as vision loss, seizures, and dizziness. There are more than 100 distant types of brain tumors according to the National Brain Tumor Society. Gliomas are one of the most common in those with neurofibromatosis. Tumors are often categorized in stages or as low- or high-grade tumors. Low grade tumors are thought to be slow growing tumors and high-grade tumors are thought to be fast growing. Treatment also varies greatly depending on the type, size and location of the tumors Some common treatments include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgical removals or even just observation for changes. Each person and treatment are different. It is always best to follow your physician’s guidance and even get second opinions if needed.

In neurofibromatosis type 1 about 15% of NF1 patients develop brain tumors called gliomas, usually during childhood. The most common gliomas associated with NF1 are astrocytoma, brain stem glioma and optic pathway glioma.

People with NF2-related schwannomatosis often develop bilateral vestibular schwannomas, also known as acoustic neuromas in the brain. They may also develop Meningiomas, a slow-growing tumor that usually develops on the surface of the brain or gliomas, including ependymomas.