Conditions

Tuberous Sclerosis

Tuberous Sclerosis might sound like something you’d find in a hanging basket, but the name actually refers to growths that form on the brain which look like rounded swellings (tubers). Affecting around 8,000 people in the UK to varying degrees (less than 1% of the population), it is essentially a genetic condition caused by a problem with one of two genes involved in the process of growing cells in the body. Tuberous Sclerosis sufferers are more at risk of epileptic fits, kidney problems, autism and heart problems. The condition also has a tendency to appear as marks or lesions on the face, which can be uncomfortable and distressing. While there is no cure for TS, people can live normal lives and treatment is available for the symptoms. However, some people are so mildly affected that the condition is never even diagnosed.

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