Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 237.0      ICD10: D44.4      ICD11: 2A00

A craniopharyngioma is a rare, non-cancerous (benign) type of brain tumor that develops near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus.
These two structures are vital for hormone regulation.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

Brain Tumor: An abnormal mass or growth of cells in the brain.

Craniopharyngioma: A specific type of tumor with distinct characteristics:
Origin: Arises from remnants of Rathke's pouch, an embryonic structure involved in the development of the pituitary gland.
Location: Typically found near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, at the base of the brain.
Benign: Not cancerous, meaning it doesn't spread to other parts of the body. However, because of its location, it can cause serious problems by pressing on nearby structures.
Slow-growing: Usually develops slowly over time.
Cystic: Often contains cysts filled with fluid, which can contribute to its size and impact on surrounding brain tissue.

Key things to understand about Craniopharyngiomas:

Impact on Hormones: Due to their proximity to the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, craniopharyngiomas can disrupt hormone production. This can lead to a variety of problems, including:
Growth problems: Especially in children (delayed growth, short stature).
Early or delayed puberty: Disruption of sex hormones.
Diabetes insipidus: A condition where the body can't regulate fluid balance, leading to excessive thirst and urination.
Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid.
Adrenal insufficiency: Underactive adrenal glands.
Symptoms: The symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, and the age of the patient. Common symptoms include:
Headaches
Vision problems: Blurred vision, double vision, loss of peripheral vision.
Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Changes in behavior or personality
Cognitive problems
Excessive thirst and urination
Growth delays in children
Diagnosis: Diagnosis usually involves a neurological exam, imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, and hormone testing.
Treatment: The primary treatment for craniopharyngioma is surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Radiation therapy may be used as an adjunct to surgery to treat any remaining tumor cells, or in cases where surgery is not possible.
Recurrence: Craniopharyngiomas can recur (grow back) even after successful treatment. Regular follow-up appointments and imaging are essential to monitor for recurrence.
Long-term Management: Because of the potential for hormone deficiencies, long-term hormone replacement therapy is often necessary after treatment.

In summary, a craniopharyngioma is a non-cancerous brain tumor that arises near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, leading to potential hormone imbalances and other neurological problems. Treatment typically involves surgery and/or radiation, along with long-term hormone management.

It is important to consult with a qualified medical professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition. This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice.