Changes of the facial skeleton in cases of neurofibromatosis

In 12 patients with neurofibromatosis of the maxillofacial region distinct changes of the facial skeleton were found, which in localisation and extent largely conformed to the more or less wide soft tissue hyperplasias. In pronounced cases, a combined maxillo-zygomatico-temporo-mandibular hypoplasia was present radiographically. These skeletal changes hardly can be interpreted as pressure atrophy caused by the adjacent neurofibromatous tumours; more likely they are the result of complex developmental disorders. A more detailed explanation possibly will be obtained, when development and skeletal changes are controlled radiographically over a long period of time.