Brain tumors: Signs, treatments, and prognosis - Focusing on Craniopharyngioma and Pituitary Adenoma
Craniopharyngiomas and pituitary adenomas are two distinct types of brain tumors that can significantly impact an individual's health. Let's delve into their characteristics, symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Craniopharyngiomas
Craniopharyngiomas are benign tumors that arise from embryonic remnants in the suprasellar region, usually causing symptoms from both hypothalamic and pituitary dysfunction. These tumors have a 20-year survival rate of over 90%.
The most common symptoms of craniopharyngiomas include hormonal deficiencies due to pituitary gland compression, increased intracranial pressure symptoms, hypothalamic symptoms, and visual problems from optic chiasm compression.
Craniopharyngiomas are categorised into two types: adamantinomatous and papillary. Adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas, which account for 86-89% of all craniopharyngiomas, are more common in children. More than 70% of people with adamantinomas have variations in the CTNNB1 or APC genes.
Treatment for craniopharyngiomas typically involves surgical resection, often combined with radiation therapy. Recurrence is common, requiring careful long-term follow-up, and hormonal replacement is necessary for deficits caused by gland/hypothalamus damage.
Pituitary Adenomas
Pituitary adenomas are benign tumors originating from pituitary cells, often sporadic but can be associated with genetic syndromes such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). These tumors are the second most common type of primary central nervous system tumors among all age groups, accounting for approximately 50% of all tumors inside the skull. They are the most common type among adolescents and young adults.
Symptoms for pituitary adenomas vary depending on the hormone affected but commonly include headaches, visual field defects, and hormonal imbalances. Hormonal symptoms depend on the adenoma type, such as prolactinomas causing amenorrhea and galactorrhea.
Treatment for pituitary adenomas may include surgery, high-dose radiation therapy, and medication to shrink or destroy the tumor. Some cases use observation if asymptomatic and stable. Hormone replacement is used if hypopituitarism develops.
Pituitary adenomas commonly have variations in the AIP, GNAS, USP8, USP48, and BRAF genes. These genetic variations are acquired rather than ones that run in families.
If you or your child show new signs that could indicate a hormone deficiency, it is crucial to contact a doctor. Symptoms that could indicate a hormone deficiency include headaches, vision problems, increased thirst and urination, and a slowed growth rate.
In summary, craniopharyngiomas and pituitary adenomas are distinct brain tumors with different characteristics, symptoms, and treatment options. It is essential to consult a doctor if you or your child experience symptoms that could indicate a hormone deficiency. Regular check-ups and careful long-term follow-up are crucial for managing these conditions.
- Craniopharyngiomas, with a high survival rate and symptoms such as hormonal deficiencies, increased intracranial pressure, hypothalamic symptoms, and visual problems, are benign tumors that impact the pituitary and hypothalamus regions.
- When it comes to pituitary adenomas, these benign tumors originating from pituitary cells can cause symptoms like headaches, visual field defects, and hormonal imbalances, among other things.
- Oncology and endocrinology experts classify craniopharyngiomas into two types, adamantinomatous and papillary, with the former being more common in children and linked to specific gene variations like CTNNB1 and APC.
- Medical-condition investigations have found genetic variations in genes such as AIP, GNAS, USP8, USP48, and BRAF to be common in pituitary adenomas, which are usually sporadic but can be associated with genetic syndromes like MEN1. When experiencing signs indicating a potential hormone deficiency, such as headaches, vision problems, or changes in growth rate, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper assessment and management.
