[Therapeutic update on the treatment of craniopharyngiomas].
Craniopharyngioma is an uncommon benign neoplasm, accounting for 1%-3% of all intracranial tumors, and the most common non-neuroepithelial intracranial neoplasm in childhood. Usually, the tumor is confined to the sellar region and the third ventricle, but due to frequent infiltration and adherence to the central nervous system, it often has an unfavorable clinical behavior. Therefore, it is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a tumor of low or uncertain malignant potential. Endocrine after effects, mainly hypothalamic hypopituitarism, obesity and diabetes insipidus are highlighted due to their important impact on the quality of life of patients, mostly children. Optimal treatment of this tumor is a major challenge for neurosurgeons and endocrinologists. The combination of surgery, radiation, and application of radioisotopes and intratumoral drugs, aims at maximizing the chances of cure with minimal complications. Yet, recurrence is still frequent. Choosing the best treatment modality for craniopharyngiomas is a difficult decision, and it should always be specific for each case. In order to explore the multiple therapeutic options for craniopharyngiomas, we reviewed the literature with emphasis on the therapeutic possibilities and complications inherent to the treatment of this disease.
Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. malicebordallo@terra.com.br
Maria Alice Neves
MA
Bordallo
Rodrigo Martins
RM
Ferreira
Daniel Alves
DA
Bulzico
D002648:Child; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification; D003397:Craniopharyngioma / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D010911:Pituitary Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D057285:Precision Medicine