Craniofacial Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Clinical Features, Challenges Of Management, And A Report Of 2 Nigerian Patients

Objective: The objective of this article is to highlight the various soft tissue and skeletal manifestations of craniofacial neurofibromatosis and the challenges involved in the surgical management of patients with complex cases. Methodology:An extensive literature review was conducted to highlight the clinical features of craniofacial neurofibromatosis. The notable challenges of management from the experience of the authors were highlighted and two cases of Nigerian patients are presented to demonstrate the challenges of management as it affects patients in the developing nations of Africa who often require referral abroad.Result:Patients with craniofacial neurofibromatosis present with varying soft tissue and skeletal features which often necessitate complex, expensive and highly technical surgical management which are often not locally available in some developing countries. In this article, the skeletal features are presented under 3 subheadings; cranial features, orbital features and orofacial features. The 2 cases presented illustrate the clinical features and the technicalities of management with emphasis on the need for a committed craniofacial team. Conclusion:In order to reduce the physical and financial burden in the management of complex craniofacial conditions, the need to improve facilities and expertise and to form effective craniofacial teams in the third world countries is imperative.