The soft-tissue manifestations of neurofibromatosis type 1

The radiological appearances of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) are numerous and variable, because of the widespread presence of peripheral nerves. Knowledge of this variability can prevent unnecessary intervention. For example, occasionally lesions can be misinterpreted and biopsies performed unnecessarily. Thus, familiarity with the manifestations of this disease and the spectrum of associated abnormalities is an important part of the radiologist's armamentarium. This paper explores the manifold radiological appearances of extracranial NF-1 as experienced by the Sarcoma and Soft Tissue Tumour Unit at the Royal Marsden Hospital.