Neurofibromas usually affect nerves that are close to the surface of the body such as nerves of the skin or tissue just beneath the skin. However they can occur in any nerve. Unlike schwannomas, which are easily separated from the host nerve with surgery, neurofibromas are most intimately involved with the nerve structure.

• painless, slow growing mass
• sometimes pain
• electric like shock when affected area is felt (known as "Tinel sign")
• usually no neurological problems or loss unless the tumor involves a major motor or sensory nerve or is compressed between the tumor and a rigid structure.

• X-ray - a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film. Neurofibromas are not seen well on x-rays, but an x-ray should be obtained to ensure that the adjacent bone is not involved.
• Ultrasound - an imaging technology that uses high frequency sound waves to view internal organs and structures and produce diagnostic pictures of the human body. Ultrasound is sometimes useful to detect soft tissue masses.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
• Biopsy of the tumor - A simple surgical procedure during which a tissue sample from the tumor is taken and then viewed under a microscope.

• your child's age, overall health, and medical history
• which nerves are affected and whether the condition is causing symptoms
• your child's tolerance for specific procedures, or therapies
• how your child's physician expects the disease may progress
• your opinion or preference

Neurofibroma is usually treated successfully and the condition usually does not recur.