Definition

Von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) is a rare disorder in which some blood vessels grow in an unusual way. This causes tumors in parts of the body that have many blood vessels.

Causes

VHL is caused by an abnormal change in a gene. Blood vessels grow in a small knot instead of in branches. The knot forms a growth or tumor, often in the eye and brain. VHL is also linked to other tumors and cysts throughout the body.

Risk Factors

The risk of this problem is higher in people who have other family members who have it.

Symptoms

Symptoms differ in each person. It can start at any age, in different organs, and can cause mild-to-severe problems.

Problems may be:

• Eyesight problems
• Headaches
• A feeling of spinning when a person is not moving
• Problems walking
• Problems swallowing
• Weakness

Blood Vessels in the Retina of the Eye

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Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Hearing and vision may also be tested.

Blood tests may be done to look for signs of the VHL gene.

Urine tests may also be done.

Pictures may be taken of the body. This can be done with:

• MRI scan
• CT scan
• Ultrasound

Treatment

There is no cure. The goal is to remove tumors before they grow too large and cause problems. This can be done with surgery. Radiation therapy may also be done.

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.