Craniopharyngioma
Craniopharyngioma
Contact Us
Related Videos :
Frequently Asked Questions :
1. Is craniopharyngioma life-threatening?
Craniopharyngioma is not cancerous, but it can be life-threatening if left untreated due to its proximity to critical brain structures. Early diagnosis and expert treatment are crucial.
2. How long is the recovery time after craniopharyngioma surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the surgical approach and individual health. Most patients require 2-4 weeks of recovery, with follow-up care for hormone management.
3. Can craniopharyngioma recur after treatment?
Yes, craniopharyngiomas can recur, particularly if not completely removed during surgery. This is why regular follow-up and monitoring are essential after treatment.
What is Craniopharyngioma?
Craniopharyngioma is a rare, non-cancerous tumor that develops near the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. Despite being benign, it can cause significant symptoms by compressing nearby structures, particularly affecting hormonal balance, vision, and brain function. Early diagnosis and expert treatment are crucial for managing this condition effectively.
Causes of Craniopharyngioma
The exact cause of craniopharyngioma is still not well understood, but it is believed to arise from remnants of embryonic tissue near the pituitary gland. This tumor is not linked to genetic factors, nor is it preventable, and it usually occurs sporadically. It can affect both children and adults, although it is more commonly diagnosed in children between 5 to 14 years old and adults over 50.
Types of Craniopharyngioma
There are two main types of craniopharyngioma:
- Adamantinomatous Craniopharyngioma: More common in children, this type may contain cysts and calcifications.
- Papillary Craniopharyngioma: Mostly found in adults, this type is less likely to form cysts or calcifications.
Understanding the type of tumor helps in deciding the best course of treatment.
Symptoms of Craniopharyngioma
Craniopharyngioma can lead to various symptoms depending on its size and the areas of the brain it affects. Common symptoms include:
- Vision Problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision due to pressure on the optic nerves.
- Hormonal Imbalance: The tumor can affect the pituitary gland, leading to growth issues, weight gain, excessive thirst, fatigue, or delayed puberty in children.
- Headaches: Frequent and persistent headaches due to increased pressure in the brain.
- Balance or Coordination Issues: Trouble walking, dizziness, or problems with coordination.
If you or your child are experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a specialist like Dr. Sandeep Vaishya for timely diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Craniopharyngioma
Accurate diagnosis of craniopharyngioma typically involves:
- Neurological Examination: To check vision, balance, reflexes, and cognitive functions.
- Imaging Tests: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography) scans are used to detect the size, location, and impact of the tumor.
- Blood Tests: To check for hormone imbalances caused by pituitary dysfunction.
- Vision Testing: To assess any impairment of the optic nerves.
Early diagnosis is critical to preventing long-term complications and ensuring successful treatment.
Treatment Options for Craniopharyngioma
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya employs state-of-the-art treatment methods tailored to each patient’s needs. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: The primary treatment is surgical removal of the tumor. Minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic surgery, can be used to reduce recovery time and risks. Dr. Vaishya is an expert in such advanced procedures.
- Radiation Therapy: In cases where surgery cannot remove the entire tumor, targeted radiation therapy may be recommended to shrink the remaining tumor and prevent regrowth.
- Hormonal Replacement Therapy: Since craniopharyngioma can disrupt hormone production, hormone replacement therapy may be required post-treatment to maintain normal body functions.
Cost of Treatment and Stay in India
India has become a global hub for high-quality, cost-effective medical treatment. Dr. Sandeep Vaishya offers world-class care at affordable rates. The cost of craniopharyngioma surgery in India can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the treatment required, but it is significantly lower compared to Western countries.
- Cost of Surgery: On average, it ranges between $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the hospital and individual case needs.
- Stay Duration: Patients typically need to stay for 2 to 3 weeks in India, which includes pre-surgical consultations, surgery, recovery, and follow-up.
- Accommodation Options: Affordable accommodation near hospitals is readily available, catering to international patients and their families.