[Craniopharyngiomas: role of radiotherapy]

Bull Cancer. 2007 Nov;94(11):987-94.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Craniopharyngiomas are benign tumors of the parasellar region, characterised by high relapsing rate. Aggressive attempt at total removal does result in prolonged progression-free survival in most patients. But for tumors that clearly involve the hypothalamus, complications associated with radical surgery have prompted to adopt a combined strategy of conservative surgery and radiation therapy to residual tumor with an as high rate of cure. This strategy seems to offer the best long-term control rates with acceptable morbidity. But optimal management of craniopharyngiomas remains controversial. Although it is generally recommended that radiotherapy is given following sub-total excision of a craniopharyngioma, it remains unclear as to whether all patients with residual tumour should receive immediate or differed at relapse radiotherapy.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Craniopharyngioma / complications
  • Craniopharyngioma / radiotherapy*
  • Craniopharyngioma / surgery
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm, Residual / radiotherapy
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / complications
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / surgery
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Tumor Burden