What are the neurocutaneous syndromes?

Hi. My grandma used to be very healthy until recently. I mean, she’s not too old – only 67. But, lately, she started losing her hearing, has experienced heavy headaches and even some facial pain and numbness. We are very worried. Is it possible that she has one of the neurocutaneous syndromes? What are the neurocutaneous syndromes anyway?? Is there a way we can find out what is wrong with her?? Where should we take her?? Thanks for all replies.

It is very possible that your grandma has neurofibromatosis which is one of the neurocutaneous syndromes. Actually, neurocutaneous syndrome is a broad term for a group of neurologic disorders (brain, spine, and peripheral nerve disorders). These diseases are usually life-long conditions and are common with eldery people. It occurs in one in 4,000 persons and is caused by a gene on chromosome 17 inherited from a parent with the disease or as the result of a gene change (during life). Since neurocutaneous syndromes are life-long conditions that are not curable there is no treatment you can take, but you can manage the symptoms. I think that you should take her to neurologist to check her – he will tell you your next steps. Good luck!!