Sporadic and Familial Variants in NF1: An Explanation of the Wide Variability in Neurocognitive Phenotype?

Background: Cognitive impairment is the most common neurological manifestation in NF1 and occurs in 30-70% of NF1 cases. The onset and severity of each specific cognitive deficit varies greatly from child to child, with no apparent external causes. The wide variability of phenotype is the most complex aspect in terms of management and care. Despite multiple research, the mechanism underlying the high heterogeneity in NF1 has not yet been elucidated. While many studies have focused on the effects of specific and precise genetic mutations on the NF1 phenotype, little has been done on the impact of NF1 transmission (sporadic vs. familial cases). We used a complete neuropsychological evaluation…