Parasellar Tumors in Children

Abstract

This paper reviews the clinical presentation, neuro-ophthalmologic, endocrinologic, and radiographic findings of 74 children (0–20 years) harboring parasellar lesions who were treated on our service between 1968 and 1977. Our data support the conclusion that earlier diagnosis is occurring, although there is still a significant lag between onset of symptoms and treatment, especially in histologically benign lesions. The differential diagnosis is facilitated by recognition of key features of four major tumor types: craniopharyngioma, parasellar glioma, germinoma, and pituitary adenoma.

Prenatal diagnosis of a craniopharyngioma using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging

“…Craniopharyngiomas are the most common tumour of the parasellar region in childhood (Richmond and Wilson, 1980) and represent about 9 per cent of all paediatric brain tumours (Matson and Crigler, 1969). They are believed to be congenital in origin, arising from embryonic squamous cell rests which are residual from the involuted hypophyseal-pharyngeal duct (Hoffman et al, 1977).…”