What is Craniopharyngioma?

Craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngioma is a benign, slow-growing brain tumor that most often affects children ages 5–14, though it can occur at any age. It may contain both solid and fluid-filled (cystic) areas and does not spread to other parts of the body. Its danger comes from growing inside the confined space of the skull, where it can press on nearby structures.

The tumor develops in the sellar or suprasellar region, behind the eyes and near the pituitary gland and stalk. Symptoms depend on where and how it grows:

• Pressure on the pituitary gland or stalk can affect hormone production, potentially causing slowed growth, delayed puberty, excessive thirst, and frequent urination.
• Pressure on the optic nerves, optic chiasm, or hypothalamus may cause tunnel vision or reduced visual clarity, weight gain, sleep or memory problems, and fatigue.
• A blockage of the third ventricle, which helps circulate cerebrospinal fluid, can cause fluid to build up in the brain’s ventricles. Possible symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and drowsiness.
• Tumors growing near the middle of the pituitary stalk may affect both the sellar and suprasellar regions.

Treatment Approaches

Initial treatment depends on the tumor’s location, consistency, and size, and almost always includes surgery:

• Traditional open surgery: A piece of the skull is temporarily removed to provide access to the brain.
• Minimally invasive surgery: An endoscope is inserted through the nose to reach and remove the tumor.

Speakers and Sources

• Unidentified narrator/voiceover
• Children’s Hospital Colorado — named as a source for further information and research.