What is Adamantinomatous Craniopharyngioma?

Adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas arise from cells from an embryologic structure known as the craniopharyngeal duct. They can be solid or form a hollow (cystic) structure filled with dark brown to black (motor oil-like) fluid and are frequently calcified.

How serious is a craniopharyngioma?

How serious is a craniopharyngioma? A craniopharyngioma is a serious medical condition that may require life-long medical treatment. About half of all surgically removed tumors come back over time. Craniopharyngiomas cause several medical conditions that remain even after the tumor has been removed.

Can craniopharyngioma be cured?

A craniopharyngioma is a rare type of benign (not cancerous) brain tumor. These tumors usually form close to the pituitary gland and do not spread to other areas. Doctors usually can remove these tumors with surgery or treat them with high doses of radiation. Most people treated for a craniopharyngioma are cured.

Why does craniopharyngioma cause weight gain?

In craniopharyngioma weight gain can principally occur from the disruption of the normal homeostatic function of the hypothalamic centers responsible for controlling satiety and hunger and regulating energy balance.

What causes a craniopharyngioma tumor?

At present, there are no known causes or proven risk factors for craniopharyngioma. Blood and urine tests can indicate a hormone imbalance that may be caused by a problem with the pituitary gland.

Can I exercise with a pituitary tumor?

H2: Aerobic training combined with strengthening training is effective on physical performance in people with pituitary adenoma. H3: Aerobic training combined with strengthening training is effective on quality of life in people with pituitary adenoma.

Can Craniopharyngioma cause obesity?

Obesity is a common complication after craniopharyngioma therapy, occurring in up to 75% of survivors. Its weight gain is unlike that of normal obesity, in that it occurs even with caloric restriction, and attempts at lifestyle modification are useless to prevent or treat the obesity.

What are the symptoms of a craniopharyngioma?

A growing craniopharyngioma can put pressure on the nerves, blood vessels or brain tissue near the pituitary gland, resulting in symptoms such as:

  • Balance problems.
  • Confusion, mood swings or behavior changes.
  • Headache.
  • Increased thirst and urination.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Slow growth in children.
  • Vision problems.

Can stress cause pituitary tumors?

There are reliable research studies showing severe stress, childhood trauma, and/or physical trauma increase the likelihood of the development of a pituitary tumor.