An inherited disease, properly called neurofibromatosis. It is characterized by multiple benign tumours along the course of nerves which can be felt beneath the skin. Soft tumours may also develop beneath the skin. The condition may have other associated abnormalities such as scoliosis, decalcification of the bones due to overactivity of the parathyroid glands, and fibrosis in the lungs. Surgery may be needed for cosmetic reasons or to relieve pressure on the nervous system.