Many people with neurofibromatosis object when the term Elephant Man's Disease is applied to them. Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms. Surgery can remove painful or disfiguring tumors. However, there is a chance that the tumors could grow back and in greater numbers. In rare instances, the tumors become malignant, and treatment could include radiation and chemotherapy.
Prenatal diagnosis is possible through amniocentesis.
But genetic tests can't predict whether an individual will develop neurofibromatosis if there is no family history of it. The federal government's National Institute of Health has primary responsibility for conducting and supporting research on neurological disorders. Locally, research is being conducted at the University of Washington Medical Genetics Clinic. Researchers have pinpointed the exact location of the neurofibromatosis gene on two chromosomes. One day, studies in molecular genetics may lead to nonsurgical treatment.