Craniopharyngioma accounts for 2.5%–4% of all intracranial tumors, with half of the cases occurring in children. The peak incidence is observed between the ages of 5 and 10. Craniopharyngioma arises from residual squamous epithelial cells of the craniopharyngeal canal located in the tuber cinereum region and is classified as a benign tumor. Obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid pathways by the tumor frequently leads to hydrocephalus and increased intracranial pressure. Dysfunction of the anterior pituitary and hypothalamus caused by the tumor often results in delayed sexual development and hypogonadism. Suprasellar tumors commonly cause bitemporal hemianopsia and may be associated with optic disc atrophy or edema.
CT scans frequently reveal tumor calcification and cystic degeneration, with calcifications observed in nearly all pediatric cases and in about half of adult cases. MRI scans provide a detailed depiction of the tumor's relationship with nearby structures such as the hypothalamus, lamina terminalis, pituitary gland, and internal carotid arteries. Laboratory tests often indicate hypofunction of the anterior pituitary, adrenal cortex, and thyroid gland. The goal of surgical treatment is to relieve compression of the optic chiasm and other neural structures caused by the tumor, as well as to alleviate increased intracranial pressure.