Neurofibromatosis treatment with radiotherapy

Radiotherapy can treat certain types of neurofibromatosis, such as optic nerve gliomas (tumors developing in the eyes), auditory nerve neurinomas (tumors growing in the inner ear), and peripheral nerve sheath tumors in other organs. In addition, treatment can be used for malignant degeneration of plexiform neurofibromas. Radiation exposure helps to reduce the size and significantly slows tumor growth. Before starting treatment, planning, and modeling are carried out. In a computer simulation of irradiation, radiography, CT, or MRI is used to localize the tumor. The doctor selects the radiation dose, the type, and the direction of the ray beam. Then, special marks are applied to the patient's skin. These marks indicate the area that will be exposed to radiation. The treatment planning process typically requires around 2 hours, with a significant portion of this time dedicated to correctly positioning the patient. Each radiotherapy session is painless and brief, usually lasting only a few minutes. During the session, the patient will remain still on the treatment table. The duration and radiation dose of the therapy is determined on a case-by-case basis by doctors, considering the body's response and the tumor's reaction to treatment.