Craniopharyngioma: The role of radiation

Abstract

Although surgical resection is considered to be the primary first treatment when a patient presents with a craniopharyngioma, only 35% of such tumors present in locations that permit the possibility of complete resection. Radiotherapy was been used in the treatment of craniopharyngiomas for over 50 years. Although old techniques used opposed lateral portals directed to the sella turcica, modern radiotherapeutic techniques via the use of ct-based treatment planning and MRI fusion have permitted tighter treatment volumes which allow for better tumor control while limiting complications. Intracavitary radiotherapy with radio-isotopes and stereotactic radiosurgery may have a role in the treatment of recurrent cystic and solid recurrences respectively.