Do hormonal contraceptives stimulate growth of neurofibromas? A survey on 59 NF1 patients.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Neurofibromas are benign tumors of the peripheral nerves and hallmark of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a tumor suppressor gene syndrome. Neurofibromas mostly start developing at puberty and can increase in size and number during pregnancy. Expression of progesterone receptors has been found in 75% of the tumors. Many female NF1 patients are thus concerned about the possibility that hormonal contraceptives may stimulate the growth of their neurofibromas.

Methods

A survey was carried out on 59 female NF1 patients who are practicing or have practiced hormonal contraception to examine the effect of the various contraceptives on the growth of neurofibromas.

Results

Majority (53 out of 58) of patients who received oral estrogen-progestogen or pure progestogen p

SUBMITTER: Lammert M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC549555 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature