Craniopharyngioma
A craniopharyngioma is a rare type of benign tumor that develops near the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. The pituitary gland secretes hormones that control many body functions and as a craniopharyngioma slowly grows, it can affect the function of the pituitary gland and other nearby structures in the brain.
Craniopharyngioma can occur at any age, but it most commonly affects children between five to ten years of age and older adults.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Hormone imbalances that can lead to excessive thirst and urination, and slowed growth in children.
- Increasing pressure on the brain that can cause headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
- Pressure or damage to the optic nerve that can cause vision problems
- Behavioral and learning problems
Treatment
The goal of the treatment is to relieve symptoms and surgery to remove the tumor is typically the main treatment for craniopharyngioma. However, radiation treatment instead of surgery or along with a smaller surgery may be the best choice for some people. Stereotactic radiosurgery – a type of radiation therapy – may also be an option for some patients.
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