Childhood Craniopharyngioma

Childhood craniopharyngiomas are rare benign brain tumors found near the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. Craniopharyngiomas are usually part solid mass and part fluid-filled cyst.

Although they are benign, these tumors may grow and press on parts of the brain or other nearby areas, including the pituitary gland, the optic chiasm, optic nerves, and fluid-filled spaces in the brain. This may affect different functions of the brain that could impact vision, growth, and the hormone-making process. 

Craniopharyngiomas are rare in children younger than 2 and are most often diagnosed in children ages 5 to 14. It is not known what causes these tumors to form.

Childhood Craniopharyngioma Treatment (PDQ®)

Source: National Cancer Institute