The pituitary gland regulates and controls the secretion of hormones from other endocrine glands and many body processes by producing a range of hormones. Most of the tumors are not malignant, but because their growth invades other structures, the tumors are considered a neoplasm . Craniopharyngiomas are benign , cystic, congenital tumors. The causes of pituitary tumors are unknown. The incidence is 1 out of 10,000 people.
Symptoms are related to hormone deficiencies and pressure on intracranial structures.
A physical examination shows abnormal eye findings. Surgical treatment to remove the tumor may be done through the skull if the tumor is large and placing pressure on optic nerves. Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery, or for people who are poor surgical candidates. Certain medications may shrink certain types of tumors. The probable outcome is fair to good depending upon the extent of tumor spread within brain structures.