Etymed
craniopharyngioma
Definition
A benign tumor arising from remnants of the pharyngeal pouch during embryonic development, typically located in the sellar region near the pituitary gland
Clinical context
A 16-year-old boy presents with headaches and visual disturbances. MRI reveals a mass in the sellar region with calcifications, and laboratory studies show central precocious puberty. The tumor's location and histological features are consistent with a craniopharyngioma. A 55-year-old woman presents with polyuria and polydipsia, and imaging shows a suprasellar mass with cystic components. Laboratory findings reveal diabetes insipidus and elevated serum osmolality. The radiological appearance and clinical presentation are classic for craniopharyngioma.
Mnemonic
Cranial Pharyngeal tumors = Cystic masses near the pituitary gland in children and young adults