What to know about TSC:(Tuberous sclerosis complex)

We searched and written by Brittany N Sinclair

Edited and published by Samantha C Sinclair

What to know about TSC:(Tuberous sclerosis complex)

What is TSC? Tuberous sclerosis Complex(TSC) is an unknown gentic disorder that causes tumors to develop in many parts of the body. These tumors are non-cancerous tumors or benign tumors. These tumors are an overgrowth of cells and tissue that are not expected. Tsc is often found during infancy(childhood), often times even undiagnosed until adulthood.

Tuberous sclerosis complex can sometimes even cause serious disabilities as well. No cure has been discovered at this time for Tsc.

What are symptoms of TSC?

Most symptoms are found in the skin, brain, eyes, kidneys, heart and lungs. However, any body part can be affected, and develop growths. Symptoms range from mild to severe depending on location and size of growth.

Breaking down symptoms

Skin changes are common. These may include patches of lighter skin, as well as small areas of thickened,smooth or bumpy skin. On forehead skin can have raised discolored areas. Soft bumps may occur under or around nails.

Starting in childhood, the growth can appear as acne spots.

TSC and seizures

Seizures can often times be the first symptom of TSC,due to growths in the brain. A common type of seizure associated with TSC is known as infantile spasm.

TSC and developmental delays

Problems thinking, reasoning, and learning.

These growths can cause developmental delays. Also, can cause mental health conditions such as Autisum Spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD).

Behavior issues such as aggression. Issues with social and or emotional adjustment, can also develop from Tuberous sclerosis Complex (TSC)

Other related health issues

Kidney, heart, lung, eye, and dental change can also occur when diagnosed with TSC.

When should you see a doctor?

While Tuberous sclerosis complex can be noticed at birth, it may not appear until later in childhood. In certain cases, TSC may not be diagnosed until adulthood.

The cause of TSC

The cause of Tuberous sclerosis complex(TSC) is thought to be caused by gene changes. These are often called mutations. gene TSC 1, or TSC 2 gene.

These genes are thought to prevent cells from growing to rapidly. These genes can cause cells to grow and divide more rapidly then needed. Leading to multiple growths (Typically non-cancerous) through out the body.

Information according to mayoclinic.org