Newly Diagnosed

We’re here to help you on your journey.

Learning more about your child’s brain tumor diagnosis will empower you to move forward and take an active part in making the best possible choices for your child's care. Here you'll find information to help you anticipate what’s needed in the first few months after your child's diagnosis.

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Craniopharyngiomas

Craniopharyngiomas are not cancerous, but these rare benign brain tumors can grow and affect important brain functions. They need treatment.

About craniopharyngiomas

Childhood craniopharyngiomas are rare benign brain tumors. They are usually found near the pituitary gland (a pea-sized organ at the bottom of the brain that controls other glands) and the hypothalamus (a small organ connected to the pituitary gland by nerves).

These pediatric brain tumors are usually part solid mass and part fluid-filled cyst. They do not spread to other parts of the brain or body. However, they may grow and press on nearby tissue, including the pituitary gland, the optic chiasm, optic nerves, and ventricles (fluid-filled spaces in the brain).

Craniopharyngiomas may affect important functions of the brain, including making hormones, growth, and vision. Even though they are not cancerous, these brain tumors need treatment.