Sonodynamic Therapy for Recurrent Plexiform Neurofibroma: A Case Report

Neurofibromatosis (NF 1) is an autosomal genetic disease caused by mutations in the 17q11.2 gene, called the NF1 gene, with an incidence rate of 1/2500. Characteristics of the disease are the growth of Café au lait spots, freckles on the jaw and armpits, and neurofibromas growing along nerve fibers. Plexiform neurofibromatosis usually involves multiple nerves, clinically manifested as swelling and irregular skin lumps involving the surrounding hoof tissue and skin folds in a shape similar to a “bags of worms.” The primary treatment methodology has been surgery, but the treatment effects remain unsatisfactory, with frequent postoperative recurrences and inability to lead to full recovery from the disease even after multiple operations. We have used Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT), a new treatment technique in a case of recurrent plexiform neurofibroma following repeatedly surgery. In this report, we discuss the significance of a new treatment technology for recurrent neurofibromatosis.