National Institutes of Health Consensus Conference: Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

I n July 1998, the National Institutes of Health sponsored a consensus conference of international experts to review the literature on tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). First described in the 1800s, this multiorgan disease has wide-ranging effects on the body, including the brain, kidneys, eyes, and heart. Tuberous sclerosis affects an estimated 40000 Americans and approximately 2 million people worldwide. The panel provided recommendations on revised diagnostic criteria and surveillance protocols for affected individuals. Areas for future research were highlighted.