A rare type of brain tumour, papillary craniopharyngioma often grows in proximity to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is situated at the base of the brain and is responsible for producing hormones involved in stress responses and growth stimulation, among other essential functions. Due to the location of papillary tumours, these growths can have a significant affect on a person’s health and wellness.
Papillary brain tumours typically affect adults, while adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma mostly develops in children. Papillary tumours often consist of solid tissues, while the adamantinomatous type can be made up of solid tissues and fluid-filled cysts. Papillary craniopharyngioma is also less aggressive when compared to adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma.
Symptoms of papillary craniopharyngioma include:
Not all patients experience the same symptoms, as it depends on the size and specific location of the tumour. As for causes, it is not clear why this type of tumour develops. There are no underlying genetic contributors, and no risk factors exist that increase a person’s chance of developing a papillary tumour.
It may be possible for surgeons to remove papillary tumours using traditional or endoscopic surgical procedures, which entails using a long, flexible tool to access and remove tumorous tissues. Radiation therapy may also be recommended, which can shrink tumours and/or stop them from becoming larger. Chemotherapy is another possible treatment option, but it is used less often than other treatments.
Prognosis can vary according to the size of the tumour and the general health of the person affected. However, papillary tumours are very treatable, and the outlook is good for many patients.