Craniopharyngioma
What is a Craniopharyngioma?
A craniopharyngioma is a rare, benign tumour that forms at the base of the brain. It usually develops near the pituitary gland. As the tumour grows larger, it can affect the functioning of the pituitary gland and it can also damage the other structures in the brain.
Causes of Craniopharyngioma
Craniopharyngioma is mainly caused due to malformations in the embryonic tissue during pregnancy. They are classified into two types:
- Adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma: Most commonly seen in children
- Papillary craniopharyngioma: Present in elderly people
Symptoms of Craniopharyngioma
Symptoms of craniopharyngioma develop due to the growth of the tumour that increases the pressure inside the brain. The symptoms may vary based on the location of the tumour. They include:
- Hormonal variations
- Headaches
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Slow growth or short stature (in children)
- Lack of sexual maturation (in children)
Diagnosis of Craniopharyngioma
Your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms and based on this a physical and neurological examination will be performed. Your doctor may also recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- Blood test: This helps to evaluate the levels of hormones produced by the pituitary gland.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan: An imaging study that uses a large magnetic field and radio waves to detect the tumour.
Treatment for Craniopharyngioma
The goal of the treatment is to relieve the symptoms. This includes:
- Surgery: Your doctor will recommend the best surgical option based on the size and location of the tumour. The various options include:
- Craniotomy: The tumour will be removed by making an opening in the skull.
- Endoscopic Transphenoidal surgery: This involves the removal of the tumour via the nose using specialised telescopes with cameras called endoscopes.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used to destroy the cancer cells. Radiation is usually performed after surgery to destroy any remaining tumour cells or as the main treatment.
- Targeted Therapy: In this method, drugs that target specific genetic mutations are used to kill tumour cells. Currently a class of drugs called BRAF inhibitors may be used for craniopharyngiomas if the tumour has a specific genetic mutation.
