Craniopharyngioma

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Diagnosis

Diagnosing a craniopharyngioma usually starts with a medical history review and a discussion of symptoms. Tests used to diagnose a craniopharyngioma include:

  • Neurological exam. During this exam, a healthcare professional tests vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reflexes, and growth and development. This can help show which part of the brain might be affected by the tumor.
  • Blood tests. Blood tests may reveal changes in hormone levels that show a tumor is affecting the pituitary gland.
  • Imaging tests. Imaging tests capture pictures of the brain. The pictures can show the size and location of the tumor. Imaging tests include X-rays, CTs and MRIs. In certain situations, other tests might be needed.
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Diagnosis & treatment
Aug. 19, 2025
Print
  1. Ferri FF. Craniopharyngioma. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2023. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 28, 2023.
  2. Harsh GR, et al. Craniopharyngioma. https://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed April 28, 2023.
  3. Childhood craniopharyngioma treatment (PDQ) – Patient version. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/types/brain/patient/child-cranio-treatment-pdq. Accessed April 28, 2023.
  4. Winn HR, ed. Pediatric craniopharyngiomas. In: Youmans and Winn Neurological Surgery. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 28, 2023.
  5. Craniopharyngioma. Cancer.Net. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/craniopharyngioma-childhood/view-all. Accessed April 28, 2023.

Craniopharyngioma

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