Review of the role of radiotherapy in craniopharyngiomas: how does patient age influence management decisions?
Craniopharyngioma is a brain tumor that can affect children and adults. Although histologically benign, if untreated it can enlarge and lead to serious morbidity and even death, because of its close proximity to critical structures in the parasellar region, including the pituitary, hypothalamus, optic chiasm, carotid arteries and third ventricle. Surgically, two main approaches are currently pursued: macroscopic complete excision or a primarily conservative approach. Another question is the role of radiotherapy in the postoperative setting. Because the associated morbidities with aggressive surgery or radiotherapy can be particularly pronounced in children, the most appropriate management of craniopharyngiomas in this age group remains controversial.
Franzone
Paola
P
Radiotherapy Department, SS. Antonio and Biagio Hospital, Alessandria, Italy. pfranzone@ospedale.al.it
Berretta
Laura
L
Barra
Salvina
S
D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003397:Craniopharyngioma / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D003657:Decision Making; D006801:Humans; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects; D010911:Pituitary Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D018570:Risk Assessment