Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: What You Need to Know

TSC stands for tuberous sclerosis complex. Often times, it is known as tuberous sclerosis.

What is TSC?

Tuberous sclerosis complex is a rare genetic disease that can affect multiple areas of the body. It can cause tumors to develop in the brain. Additionally, tumors can grow in a person’s eyes, heart, lungs, and other main organs. TSC occurs when there is a mutation in either the TSC1 or TSC2 gene.

What are the first signs of TSC?

During pregnancy, an abnormal growth of the fetal heart can be an indicator of a baby having TSC when they are born. This is called cardiac rhabdomyoma. Seizures and/or developmental delays are one of the early ways a doctor can diagnose a child with tuberous sclerosis complex. In some cases, a person may have hypomelanotic macules, which are white patches on the skin.

What are the symptoms associated with TSC?

Symptoms of TSC can vary due to which organs are affected. Each person diagnosed may experience different symptoms. Likewise, the level of severity can also differ. Most symptoms are linked to the central nervous system.

Common symptoms are:

  • Benign tumors
  • Seizures
  • Behavioral issues
  • Kidney disease
  • Autism
  • Skin abnormalities

Is there a cure or treatment?

There is not a cure for TSC, but there is treatment to actively control symptoms. Individuals with this condition are monitored regularly by a team of specialists since it is a lifelong disease.

For more information click here and visit the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance.


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