Tuberous sclerosis (TSC) is a rare genetic disease that causes benign tumors to grow in the brain and on other vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, eyes, lungs, and skin. It commonly affects the central nervous system. In addition to the benign tumors that frequently occur in TSC, other common symptoms include seizures, mental retardation, behavior problems, and skin abnormalities. TSC may be present at birth, but signs of the disorder can be subtle and full symptoms may take some time to develop. Three types of brain tumors are associated with TSC: cortical tubers, which generally form on the surface of the brain; subependymal nodules, which form in the walls of the ventricles (the fluid-filled cavities of the brain); and giant-cell astrocytomas, a type of tumor that can block the flow of fluids within the brain.
There is no cure for TSC, although treatment is available for a number of the symptoms. Antiepileptic drugs may be used to
control seizures and medications may be prescribed for behavior problems. Intervention programs, including special schooling
and occupational therapy, may benefit individuals with special needs and developmental issues. Surgery, including dermabrasion
and laser treatment, may be useful for treatment of skin lesions. Because TSC is a lifelong condition, individuals need to
be regularly monitored by a doctor. Due to the many varied symptoms of TSC, care by a clinician experienced with the disorder
is recommended.
The prognosis for individuals with TSC depends on the severity of symptoms. Individuals with mild symptoms generally do
well and live long productive lives, while individuals with the more severe form may have serious disabilities. In rare cases,
seizures, infections, or tumors in vital organs such as the kidneys and brain can lead to severe complications and even death.
However, with appropriate medical care, most individuals with the disorder can look forward to normal life expectancy.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) conducts TSC research in its laboratories at the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) and also supports TSC research through grants to major medical institutions across the country.
Scientists in one study are learning more about the genes that can cause TSC and the function of the proteins those genes
produce. Another study focuses on two major brain disorders --autism and epilepsy -- that occur in children with TSC. Other
scientists are trying to determine what causes skin tumors to develop in individuals with TSC and to find the molecular basis
of these tumors. Scientists hope knowledge gained from their current research will improve the genetic test for TSC and lead
to new avenues of treatment, methods of prevention, and, ultimately, a cure.
Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance 801 Roeder Road Suite 750 Silver Spring, MD 20910-4467 info@tsalliance.org http://www.tsalliance.org Tel: 301-562-9890 800-225-6872 Fax: 301-562-9870 |
Epilepsy Foundation 8301 Professional Place Landover, MD 20785-7223 postmaster@efa.org http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org Tel: 301-459-3700 800-EFA-1000 (332-1000) Fax: 301-577-2684 |
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) P.O. Box 1968 (55 Kenosia Avenue) Danbury, CT 06813-1968 orphan@rarediseases.org http://www.rarediseases.org Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673) Fax: 203-798-2291 |
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
Last updated April 24, 2009