Accurate, non-invasive treatment of brain disorders

Gamma Knife is used to treat Craniopharyngiomas

According to the Pituitary Network Association, craniopharyngiomas are intracranial tumors that are typically both cystic and solid in structure. They occur most commonly in childhood and adolescence and in later adult life after age 50 years, and account for two to four percent of primary brain tumors. Craniopharyngiomas are usually not discovered until they press on important surrounding structures, and are frequently quite large (over three cenimeters) when detected. They are histologically benign tumors, but they have a tendency to become adherent to structures in and around the pituitary gland and pituitary stalk, including the optic nerves, optic chiasm, intracranial arteries and the brain itself. They are thought to arise from remnants of the craniopharyngeal duct or Rathkes pouch, which are developmental structures related to the primitive gut. Embryonic cells from an incomplete involuted craniopharyngeal duct or anterior pituitary gland may give rise to a craniopharyngioma.

The symptoms produced by a craniopharyngioma vary depending upon the tumor’s location. If it compresses the pituitary stalk or involves the area of the pituitary gland itself, the tumor can cause partial or complete pituitary hormone deficiency. This frequently results in one or more of the following:

  • Growth failure
  • Delayed puberty
  • Loss of normal menstrual function or sexual desire
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin
  • Nausea
  • Low blood pressure
  • Depression.

Pituitary stalk compression can also cause diabetes insipidus and may increase prolactin levels causing a milky discharge from the breast (galactorrhea). If the craniopharyngioma involves the optic tracts, chiasm or nerves, then visual disturbances can result. Involvement of the hypothalamus, an area at the base of the brain, may result in obesity, increased drowsiness, temperature regulation abnormalities and diabetes insipidus. Other common symptoms include personality changes, headache, confusion and vomiting.

For more information on craniopharyngiomas, visit the Pituitary Network Association.