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Craniopharyngioma

A rare intracranial tumor developing near the pituitary stalk, leading to hormonal deficiency and visual impairment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Craniopharyngioma?

Craniopharyngioma is a rare intracranial tumor arising from remnants of Rathke's pouch (embryonic pituitary remnant), developing in the sellar and suprasellar region. Although histologically benign, due to its location it presses on the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and optic chiasm, leading to serious functional disorders.

It has two age peaks: 5-15 years (childhood form — adamantinomatous type) and 45-60 years (adult form — papillary type). In children, growth hormone deficiency and short stature are typical reasons for presentation; in adults, vision loss, headache, and hypopituitarism are prominent.

Pituitary MRI is critical in diagnosis; the characteristic appearance with cystic, solid, and calcified components guides the diagnosis. Pituitary insufficiency and diabetes insipidus are frequent accompanying endocrine complications.

Symptoms

Visual impairment and visual field defects (temporal hemianopsia)
Headache and nausea (increased intracranial pressure)
Growth retardation and short stature (in children)
Excessive weight gain and obesity (hypothalamic damage)
Excessive thirst and polyuria (diabetes insipidus)
Fatigue and cold intolerance (hypopituitarism)

Risk Factors

Persistence of Rathke's pouch remnant during embryonic development
CTNNB1 mutation (in adamantinomatous type)
BRAF V600E mutation (in papillary type)
No known hereditary risk factor

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If a child's height growth is stalling and headache is present
  • When narrowing or blurring in the visual field begins
  • If there is excessive water consumption and urination (signs of diabetes insipidus)
  • When a suprasellar mass is detected on pituitary MRI

Treatment Methods

01
Surgery: total resection is the goal; however, due to risk of hypothalamic damage, limited resection plus radiotherapy may be preferred
02
Radiotherapy (conventional or proton therapy): in residual or recurrent tumor
03
Pituitary insufficiency treatment: cortisol, thyroid hormone, GH, gonadal hormone replacement
04
Diabetes insipidus: desmopressin therapy
05
Obesity management: one of the most difficult complications of hypothalamic damage
06
Multidisciplinary approach: neurosurgery, endocrinology, radiation oncology, neuro-ophthalmology

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.