Craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngioma is a common embryonic remnant tumor from Rathke pouch epithelium; most common congenital intracranial tumor; second most common sellar tumor. Children; suprasellar; 5-7% of intracranial tumors, 12-13% of pediatric. Symptoms: hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, ICP, visual field defects, diabetes insipidus, neuropsychiatric symptoms. CT diagnostic. Surgery mainstay.

Common Symptoms

Cachexia; polydipsia; tinnitus; fatigue; palatal perforation; polyuria; diplopia; hypotension; epistaxis

Causes

Congenital. Two theories: (1) congenital remnant (Erdheim): squamous rests in pars tuberalis; (2) squamous metaplasia (Luse & Kernohan 1955): 24% of autopsied pituitaries have squamous nests, increasing with age. Histology: adamantinomatous (children, peripheral palisading, stellate reticulum, wet keratin, calcification, cholesterol crystals) vs papillary squamous (adults, fibrovascular cores). Blood supply from anterior circle of Willis.

Treatment

Surgery; radiotherapy; drug therapy; supportive care

Prevention

Psychological care; visual field assessment (70-80% have defects); monitor hypothalamic injury (diabetes insipidus, fever, coma); dehydrate high ICP; replace steroids pre-op.

Recommended Department

It is recommended to visit the oncological surgery department; before the visit you may first book an appointment and connect with experts through this platform.

Warm reminder: The above information is provided for health education reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek care at a regular hospital in time.