Other far less likely candidates for tumors in this area in a child would be pituitary adenoma, meningioma, epidermoid cyst and chordoma. The radiographic location of the tumor makes several of these diagnoses even less likely. The lack of contrast enhancement and the absence of a cystic space argue against a pilocytic astrocytoma. Gangliogliomas are often accompanied by calcification or cystic spaces as well. As it is, the diagnosis of a hypothalamic hamartoma is straightforward in this case and was confirmed by the neuropathologic examination.
Clinical treatment is by surgical removal and there is no recurrence.
Symptoms generally disappear and often secondary sexual features will regress. Berkovic SF, et. Hypothalamic hamartomas and ictal laughter.