Benign brain tumors: sellar/parasellar tumors

Abstract

Neoplasms of the sellar region include pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, Rathke's cleft cysts, and, less commonly, meningiomas, germinomas, and hamartomas. Each of these entities has unique diagnostic and treatment considerations. Pituitary adenomas are the most common sellar mass found in adults, whereas craniopharyngiomas account for the majority of pediatric sellar masses. The diagnosis of sellar lesions involves a multidisciplinary effort; detailed endocrinologic, ophthalmologic, and neurologic tests are critical. The management of pituitary tumors varies. For most tumors, transsphenoidal resection remains the mainstay of treatment. Less invasive modalities, such as endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery, specific chemotherapeutic drugs, and stereotactic radiosurgery, show promise as adjuvant treatment modalities.