Lisch nodules of the iris are histopathologically identical to benign iris nevi. Medical care of patients with NF-1 depends on accurate diagnosis of specific systemic manifestations. No specific treatment of the disorders of pigmentation associated with NF-1 is indicated. Care of CNS manifestations Neurosurgical intervention may be necessary in cases of hydrocephalus, by way of placement of a cerebrospinal fluid shunt. Anticonvulsant drugs may be necessary to treat seizures, and anxiolytics and antidepressants often are needed for anxiety disorder and depression.
Orthopedic intervention is necessary to correct kyphoscoliosis and other bony deformities.
Care of visceral manifestations Occasionally, large neurofibromas of the GI tract may cause obstruction, necessitating surgical intervention. Care of ophthalmic manifestations Congenital glaucoma is a challenge to treat in any setting, and NF-1 is no exception. Optic gliomas usually are treated with expectant observation, unless aggressive growth is detected by serial imaging studies. Surgical resection of gliomas is rarely successful, and it is ultimately a virtual guarantee of loss of vision. Radiation treatment of optic gliomas has been studied extensively with varying results.