What is craniopharyngioma?
A craniopharyngioma is a benign, or noncancerous tumor that develops near the pituitary gland, a small endocrine gland at the base of the brain.
Craniopharyngiomas are localized tumors and become large before they are diagnosed, and, like many tumor types, the exact cause is unknown.
What are craniopharyngioma symptoms?
Increased pressure within the brain might cause the symptoms of craniopharyngioma. Other symptoms result from pressure on the optic tract and pituitary gland.
Common craniopharyngioma symptoms include:
- Obesity
- Delayed development
- Impaired vision
- A swollen optic nerve
Craniopharyngioma diagnosis and treatment
Usually, the craniopharyngioma diagnosis is made from an MRI scan of the brain.
Craniopharyngioma surgery to remove the tumor is usually the first step in treatment, but each patient's case is approached individually.
You will design your specific craniopharyngioma treatment plan with your cancer doctor.