Craniopharyngioma - Diagnosis & Treatment

How is craniopharyngioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing craniopharyngioma typically involves several steps:

• Medical history and physical examination: To identify symptoms indicative of hormonal imbalances and visual disturbances
• Imaging tests: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans are used to visually confirm the presence of a tumor near the pituitary gland
• Hormonal tests: Blood tests to check levels of various hormones that may indicate pituitary gland function impairment
• Vision tests: To assess any impact on the patient's vision

How is craniopharyngioma treated?

Treatment options for craniopharyngioma focus on removing or reducing the tumor while preserving pituitary function and quality of life:

• Surgery: The primary treatment method is surgical removal of the tumor. The approach depends on the tumor's size and location.
• Radiation therapy: This is used post-surgery or as a standalone treatment to target tumor remnants or inoperable tumors.
• Hormone replacement therapy: Essential for managing hormone deficiencies resulting from the tumor's location or treatment effects.
• Regular follow-up: Monitoring for tumor recurrence and managing ongoing hormonal or neurological issues.

The management of craniopharyngioma is typically multidisciplinary, involving neurosurgeons, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and oncologists to provide comprehensive care tailored to the patient's specific needs.