[Spinal changes in neurofibromatosis in children].

A systematic radiologic study of the skeletal system of 72 children with different forms of neurofibromatosis (NF) revealed a high proportion of spinal defects. Scoliosis was found in 46%, anomalies of the vertebrae in an even higher percentage, particularly cleft spine in 25%, wedge-shaped vertebrae in 22% and scalloping of vertebrae in 40%. Radiographic examination of children with even minimal signs of NF was helpful in confirming the diagnosis, staging of patients and obtaining additional hints in regard to the long term prognosis of children with neurofibromatosis.