Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), caused by mutational inactivation of the NF1 tumour suppressor gene, is one of the most common dominantly inherited human disorders, affecting 1 in 3000 individuals worldwide. This book presents in concise fashion, but as comprehensively as possible, our current state of knowledge on the molecular genetics, molecular biology and cellular biology of this tumour predisposition syndrome. Written by internationally recognized experts in the field, the 44 chapters that constitute this edited volume provide the reader with a broad overview of the clinical features of the disease, the structure and expression of the NF1 gene, its germ line and somatic mutational spectra and genotype-phenotype relationships, the structure and function of its protein product (neurofibromin), NF1 modifying loci, the molecular pathology of NF1-associated tumours, animal models of the disease, psycho-social aspects and future prospects for therapeutic treatment.

This volume offers an update of the clinical signs, diagnostic criteria (including molecular diagnosis) and targeted therapies for a particular type of genodermatosis, providing a handy and unique tool for early diagnosis. In recent years, our understanding of genodermatosis and neurocutaneous syndromes has increased, but although Type 1 Neurofibromatosis (NF1) is the most common neuroectodermal disorder and involves a large number of patients and medical disciplines, this syndrome remains underestimated, often misdiagnosed thus leading to inaccurate treatment. The literature on the molecular and pathogenetic aspects is ample, but current clinical approaches, classification, diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols are outdated, creating difficulties in early diagnosis and treatment. As such, a chapter is devoted renewing current diagnostic criteria; it includes clinical and molecular data, to offer a sound, updated discussion basis for a consensus conference. NF1 is a “time-dependent” disorder, meaning that the onset of clinical signs are closely linked to patient age and the book discusses this particularly neglected aspect extensively, as well as the latest molecular diagnosis techniques, which are highly sensitive have not been included in the diagnostic criteria. It also explains the role of the RAS-MAPK pathway and genotype-phenotype correlations. In addition it explores new concepts concerning the pathogenesis of neurofibromas and other hamarthomas and their relevance for a modern therapeutical approach with targeted molecular drugs, as well as newly discovered aspects of NF1 in all internal organs, together with their diagnostic counterparts. A chapter on mosaic neurofibromatosis is also included. There is a particular focus on differential diagnosis (i.e. other diseases with café-au-lait macules), and the recently described Legius syndrome will be presented directly by Prof Eric Legius. All chapters are easy-to-understand, up-to-date, comprehensive and concise tools and are intended for a wide range of professionals involved with genetic disorders of the skin and neurocutaneous diseases: dermatologists, pediatricians, neurologists, oncologists and general practitioners.

This book, now in a second revised edition, casts light on the often complex diagnosis of musculoskeletal tumors and tumor-like conditions by drawing on the experience of the Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute during more than 100 years of treatment and research in the field. The different entities are described from a multidisciplinary perspective, highlighting clinical, radiological, and histological correlations. Particular emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis, which often needs to take into account nontumoral conditions. The recent identification of further significant biological and genetic features, and the impact of these discoveries on the classification of round cell tumors, vascular lesions, and spindle/pleomorphic entities in bone, is also extensively discussed. The Rizzoli case archive dates back to September 1900 and contains the original material relating to more than 29,000 bone lesions and 11,000 soft tissue lesions. It is a fabulously rich resource, and this book will be invaluable for pathologists, radiologists, and clinicians at all levels of experience.

MANAGEMENT OF GENETIC SYNDROMES THE MOST RECENT UPDATE TO ONE OF THE MOST ESSENTIAL REFERENCES ON MEDICAL GENETICS Cassidy and Allanson’s Management of Genetic Syndromes, Fourth Edition is the latest version of a classic text in medical genetics. With newly covered disorders and cutting-edge, up-to-date information, this resource remains the most crucial reference on the management of genetic syndromes in the field of medical genetics for students, clinicians, caregivers, and researchers. The fourth edition includes current information on the identification of genetic syndromes (including newly developed diagnostic criteria), the genetic basis (including diagnostic testing), and the routine care and management for more than 60 genetic disorders. Written by experts, each chapter includes sections on: Incidence Diagnostic criteria Etiology, pathogenesis and genetics Diagnostic testing Differential diagnosis Manifestations and Management (by system) The book focuses on genetic syndromes, primarily those involving developmental disabilities and congenital defects. The chapter sections dealing with Manifestations and Management represents the centerpiece of each entry and is unmatched by other genetic syndrome references. Management of Genetic Syndromes is perfect for medical geneticists, genetic counselors, primary care physicians and all healthcare professionals seeking to stay current on the routine care and management of individuals with genetic disorders.

New edition, completely rewritten, with new chapters on endovascular surgery and mitochrondrial and ion channel disorders.

A comprehensive review of the clinical and genetic aspects of a disease that affects over one million people worldwide, based on the cumulative experience of the longest continuously functioning program of its kind (Riccardi directs The Neurofibromatosis Institute, Pasadena, California--his vantage point is that of an accumulated 3,700 patient-years of direct observation and follow-up of patients with NF, and a total of 22,900 patient-years, counting from the time of birth until either death or January 1991). Thoroughly revised and updated (first edition, 1986) to include the latest advances in molecular biology and methods of treatment, and contains a glossary and extensive bibliography (well over 1,000 citations). Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR