Craniopharyngioma

Excerpt

Craniopharyngiomas are rare, benign tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) that typically arise in the suprasellar region and often extend to involve critical structures such as the hypothalamus, optic chiasm, cranial nerves, third ventricle, and major blood vessels. These tumors are classified into 2 distinct subtypes—adamantinomatous and papillary—each with unique genetic characteristics, imaging features, and age-related presentations. Clinically, craniopharyngiomas can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, vomiting, and significant visual and endocrine disturbances.

Due to their proximity to vital neurovascular structures, craniopharyngiomas present a complex therapeutic challenge, requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, oncologists, neuroophthalmologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, and pediatricians. Surgical resection remains the primary treatment modality; however, achieving complete tumor removal without causing substantial morbidity is difficult. Even with successful intervention, patients often experience long-term complications such as panhypopituitarism, visual impairment, hypothalamic obesity, and neurocognitive dysfunction, significantly impacting their quality of life. These challenges underscore the need for individualized treatment strategies that balance tumor control with functional preservation.