Overview

Craniopharyngioma is a rare type of noncancerous brain tumor.

Craniopharyngioma begins as a growth of cells near the brain's pituitary gland. The pituitary gland makes hormones that control many body functions. As a craniopharyngioma slowly grows, it can affect the pituitary gland and other nearby structures in the brain.

Craniopharyngioma can happen at any age, but it occurs most often in children and older adults. Symptoms include changes in vision over time, fatigue, headaches and urinating more often. Children with craniopharyngioma may grow slowly and may be smaller than expected.

April 12, 2025

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  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.