craniopharyngioma
A noncancerous (benign) brain tumor. It begins near the pituitary gland.
As it slowly grows, it can affect the function of the pituitary gland and other nearby structures in the brain.
(Symptoms)
• gradual changes in vision
• headache
• fatigue
• excessive urination
(Risk factors)
• children (most often): It may grow slowly and may be smaller.
• older adults
(Diagnosis)
• Medical history review
• Physical exam: The vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reflexes, and growth and development are tested.
• Blood tests: Changes in hormone levels.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, and CT.
(Treatment)
• Surgery: Removal of the tumor.
- - Craniotomy: Open surgery.
- - Transsphenoidal procedure: Minimally invasive surgery (without affecting the brain). Special surgical tools are inserted through the nose.
• Radiation therapy
- - External beam radiation therapy: Proton beam therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery (very precise form of therapeutic radiation).
- - Internal radiation therapy: Brachytherapy (placement of radioactive material directly into the tumor, that can radiate to it from inside).
• Chemotherapy: Injecting a drug directly into the tumor.
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