Craniopharyngiomas: a clinicopathological analysis of factors predictive of recurrence and functional outcome

Extended endoscopic endonasal approach for recurrent or residual adult craniopharyngiomas

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the extended endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (TSA) for recurrent or residual craniopharyngiomas, focusing on the extent of tumor resection and complications resulting from surgery at a single institution.

METHODS

Twelve adult patients (six men and six women) underwent extended endoscopic endonasal TSA for a recurrent or residual craniopharyngioma after a previous surgical intervention at a single institution by a single surgeon. The mean number of surgeries patients had undergone before TSA was 1.3 (range, 1-3). The mean period between patients' most recent surgery and extended TSA was 55.9 months (range, 1-184). The mean preoperative (that is, pre-extended TSA) tumor volume was 2.87 cm³. The mean follow-up period was 15.8 months (range, 4-32). We reviewed clinical and radiological features in each case, focusing on the degree of tumor resection as well as endocrinological and ophthalmological outcomes.

RESULTS

Gross total resection was achieved in ten patients (83.3 %), and the mean resection rate was 87 % in the other two cases. There were no significant differences between pre- and postoperative endocrine function, except in one patient who suffered postoperative panhypopituitarism resulting in pituitary stalk resection, which was necessary because of obvious tumor involvement. Three patients suffered transient diabetic insipidus (DI). With respect to ophthalmological outcomes, three patients showed improvement, two others showed decline, and the remainder showed no significant changes.

CONCLUSION

The extended endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach is an effective and safe surgical approach for treating recurrent or residual craniopharyngioma.

Intracystic bleomycin for cystic craniopharyngiomas in children

BACKGROUND

Craniopharyngiomas are the commonest benign histological tumours to involve the hypothalamo-pituitary region in childhood. Cystic craniopharyngiomas comprise more than 90% of the tumours. The optimal treatment of cystic craniopharyngioma remains controversial. Radical resection is the treatment of choice in patients with favourable tumour localisation. When the tumour localisation is unfavourable, a gross-total or partial resection followed by radiotherapy is the main treatment option in adults. However, it presents a risk of morbidity, especially for children. Intracystic bleomycin has been utilised potentially to delay the use of radiotherapy or radical resection, to decrease morbidity. This review is an update of a previously published Cochrane review.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harmful effects of intracystic bleomycin in children from birth to 18 years with cystic craniopharyngioma when compared to placebo (no treatment), surgical treatment (with or without adjuvant radiotherapy) or some other intracyctic treatments.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the electronic databases CENTRAL (2014, Issue 1), MEDLINE/PubMed (from 1966 to March 2014) and EMBASE/Ovid (from 1980 to March 2014) with pre-specified terms. In addition, we searched the reference lists of relevant articles and reviews, conference proceedings (International Society for Paediatric Oncology 2005-2013) and ongoing trial databases (Register of the National Institute of Health and International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) register) in May 2014.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-randomised trials or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing intracystic bleomycin and other treatments for cystic craniopharyngiomas in children (from birth to 18 years).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed the data extraction and 'Risk of bias' assessment. We used risk ratio (RR) for binary data and mean difference (MD) for continuous data. We planned that if one of the treatment groups experienced no events and there was only one study available for the outcome, we would use the Fischer's exact test.

MAIN RESULTS

We could not identify any studies in which the only difference between the treatment groups was the use of intracystic bleomycin. We did identify a RCT comparing intracystic bleomycin with intracystic phosphorus(32) ((32)P) (n = 7 children). The trial had a high risk of bias. Survival could not be evaluated. There was no evidence of a significant difference between the treatment groups in cyst reduction (MD -0.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.69 to 0.39, P value = 0.59), neurological status (Fisher's exact P value = 0.429), 3rd nerve paralysis (Fischer's exact P value = 1.00), fever (RR 2.92, 95% CI 0.73 to 11.70, P value = 0.13) or total adverse effects (RR 1.75, 95% CI 0.68 to 4.53, P value = 0.25). There was a significant difference in favour of the (32)P group for the occurrence of headache and vomiting (Fischer's exact P value = 0.029 for both outcomes).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Since we identified no RCTs, quasi-randomised trials or CCTs of the treatment of cystic craniopharyngiomas in children in which only the use of intracystic bleomycin differed between the treatment groups, no definitive conclusions could be made about the effects of intracystic bleomycin in these patients. Only one low-power RCT comparing intracystic bleomycin with intracystic (32)P treatment was available, but no definitive conclusions can be made about the effectiveness of these agents in children with cystic craniopharyngiomas. Based on the currently available evidence, we are not able to give recommendations for the use of intracystic bleomycin in the treatment of cystic craniopharyngiomas in children. High-quality RCTs are needed.

[Practice guideline for diagnosis and treatment of craniopharyngioma and parasellar tumors of the pituitary gland]

Craniopharyngiomas are rare, locally aggressive epithelial tumors usually located in the sellar and suprasellar region. Diagnosis of craniopharyngioma is usually suggested by clinical and radiological findings that should be confirmed histologically. Surgery is the treatment of choice for most patients. The goal of surgery is to relieve compressive symptoms and to remove as much tumor as safely possible. Radiation therapy is the usual treatment to control postoperative tumor remnants and local recurrences. Parasellar lesions are low prevalent lesions and include neoplastic, inflammatory, infectious, developmental, and vascular diseases. Both their diagnosis and treatment depend on the type of lesion.

Proton beam therapy versus conformal photon radiation therapy for childhood craniopharyngioma: multi-institutional analysis of outcomes, cyst dynamics, and toxicity

PURPOSE

We compared proton beam therapy (PBT) with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for pediatric craniopharyngioma in terms of disease control, cyst dynamics, and toxicity.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We reviewed records from 52 children treated with PBT (n=21) or IMRT (n=31) at 2 institutions from 1996-2012. Endpoints were overall survival (OS), disease control, cyst dynamics, and toxicity.

RESULTS

At 59.6 months' median follow-up (PBT 33 mo vs IMRT 106 mo; P<.001), the 3-year outcomes were 96% for OS, 95% for nodular failure-free survival and 76% for cystic failure-free survival. Neither OS nor disease control differed between treatment groups (OS P=.742; nodular failure-free survival P=.546; cystic failure-free survival P=.994). During therapy, 40% of patients had cyst growth (20% requiring intervention); immediately after therapy, 17 patients (33%) had cyst growth (transient in 14), more commonly in the IMRT group (42% vs 19% PBT; P=.082); and 27% experienced late cyst growth (32% IMRT, 19% PBT; P=.353), with intervention required in 40%. Toxicity did not differ between groups. On multivariate analysis, cyst growth was related to visual and hypothalamic toxicity (P=.009 and .04, respectively). Patients given radiation as salvage therapy (for recurrence) rather than adjuvant therapy had higher rates of visual and endocrine (P=.017 and .024, respectively) dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival and disease-control outcomes were equivalent for PBT and IMRT. Cyst growth is common, unpredictable, and should be followed during and after therapy, because it contributes to late toxicity. Delaying radiation therapy until recurrence may result in worse visual and endocrine function.

Craniopharyngioma

This report is a review of findings on the diagnosis, treatment, clinical course, and prognosis of craniopharyngioma patients. Craniopharyngiomas are rare, partly cystic and calcified embryonic malformations of the sellar/parasellar region with low histological grade (WHO I°). A bimodal age distribution has been shown, with peak incidence rates in childhood-onset at 5-14 years and adult-onset craniopharyngioma at 50-74 years. Clinical manifestations are related to hypothalamic/pituitary deficiencies, visual impairment, and increased intracranial pressure. If the tumor is favorably localized, the therapy of choice is complete resection, with care taken to preserve optical and hypothalamic functions. In patients with unfavorable tumor localization (i.e., hypothalamic involvement), recommended therapy is a limited hypothalamus-sparing surgical strategy followed by local irradiation. Although overall survival rates are high (92%), recurrences and progressions are frequent. Irradiation has proven effective in reducing recurrences and progression, and timing of postsurgical irradiation in childhood-onset cases is currently under investigation in a randomized multinational trial (KRANIOPHARYNGEOM 2007). Anatomical involvement and/or surgical lesions of posterior hypothalamic areas can result in serious quality of life-compromising sequelae such as hypothalamic obesity, psychopathological symptoms, and/or cognitive problems. It is crucial that craniopharyngioma be managed as a frequently chronic disease, providing ongoing care of pediatric and adult patients' clinical and quality of life consequences by experienced multidisciplinary teams.

The endoscopic endonasal approach for the management of craniopharyngiomas: a series of 103 patients

OBJECT

Despite their benign histological appearance, craniopharyngiomas can be considered a challenge for the neurosurgeon and a possible source of poor prognosis for the patient. With the widespread use of the endoscope in endonasal surgery, this route has been proposed over the past decade as an alternative technique for the removal of craniopharyngiomas.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed data from a series of 103 patients who underwent the endoscopic endonasal approach at two institutions (Division of Neurosurgery of the Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy, and Division of Neurosurgery of the Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy), between January 1997 and December 2012, for the removal of infra- and/or supradiaphragmatic craniopharyngiomas. Twenty-nine patients (28.2%) had previously been surgically treated.

RESULTS

The authors achieved overall gross-total removal in 68.9% of the cases: 78.9% in purely infradiaphragmatic lesions and 66.3% in lesions involving the supradiaphragmatic space. Among lesions previously treated surgically, the gross-total removal rate was 62.1%. The overall improvement rate in visual disturbances was 74.7%, whereas worsening occurred in 2.5%. No new postoperative defect was noted. Worsening of the anterior pituitary function was reported in 46.2% of patients overall, and there were 38 new cases (48.1% of 79) of postoperative diabetes insipidus. The most common complication was postoperative CSF leakage; the overall rate was 14.6%, and it diminished to 4% in the last 25 procedures, thanks to improvement in reconstruction techniques. The mortality rate was 1.9%, with a mean follow-up duration of 48 months (range 3-246 months).

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic endonasal approach has become a valid surgical technique for the management of craniopharyngiomas. It provides an excellent corridor to infra- and supradiaphragmatic midline craniopharyngiomas, including the management of lesions extending into the third ventricle chamber. Even though indications for this approach are rigorously lesion based, the data in this study confirm its effectiveness in a large patient series.

Primary treatment regimen and diabetes insipidus as predictors of health outcomes in adults with childhood-onset craniopharyngioma

CONTEXT

Craniopharyngiomas are often associated with significant morbidity due to their location and treatment effects. Little is known of the effects of primary treatment regimen and diabetes insipidus (DI), a clinical surrogate of hypothalamic obesity, on health outcomes in adults with childhood-onset craniopharyngioma (COCP).

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to examine health outcomes of adults with COCP based on primary treatment regimens and the presence of DI.

DESIGN

This study included a retrospective KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database) data analysis of 180 adults with COCP according to the primary treatment regimen [one surgery (1Surg) vs complex treatment regimen (CTrR) of more than 1Surg and/or radiotherapy] and the presence of DI.

RESULTS

The majority of COCP patients underwent transcranial surgery (77%) without receiving radiotherapy (84%). Compared with the 1Surg group, more CTrR patients developed visual field defects and ophthalmoplegia (all P < .01). Compared with patients without DI, those with DI had higher rates of anterior pituitary hormone deficits, body mass index, and fat mass (all P < .01). By contrast, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, lipid panel, and quality of life were comparable among 1Surg vs CTrR patients, and patients with vs without DI. Regardless of primary treatment received, the presence of DI in either group was associated with higher rates of anterior pituitary hormone deficits and obesity.

CONCLUSION

CTrR and DI predicted health outcomes differently. CTrR predisposed to the development of visual dysfunction, whereas DI was associated with higher rates of anterior pituitary dysfunction and weight gain. Higher body mass index and fat mass in patients with DI further implicate the role of hypothalamic damage as an important causal factor of obesity in these patients.

Management of craniopharyngiomas

Craniopharyngiomas are rare epithelial tumours arising along the path of the craniopharyngeal duct. Their pathogenesis remains uncertain and they can present with a variety of manifestations attributed to pressure effects to surrounding structures. The optimal management of craniopharyngiomas remains challenging mainly due to their sharp, irregular borders and their tendency to adhere to vital neurovascular structures making surgical manipulations potentially hazardous to vital brain areas. Non-aggressive surgery followed by radiotherapy is currently the most widely used option possibly achieving the most optimal long-term outcome. Other treatment modalities including intracystic irradiation, intracystic instillation of antineoplasmatic agents and stereotactic radiotherapy are also available in our armamentarium. The long-term morbidities related with the craniopharyngiomas and their treatment remain significant, with hypothalamic damage playing the protagonist role and requiring further studies to identify measures that will improve the prognosis of the patients.

A review of childhood and adolescent craniopharyngiomas with particular attention to hypothalamic obesity

BACKGROUND

Although craniopharyngiomas are considered "benign" neoplasms by the World Health Organization classification, these tumors may create significant morbidity and mortality in patients. Hypothalamic obesity is a frequent complication of craniopharyngiomas and is refractory to current management options.

PATIENTS/METHODS

We reviewed 24 cases of craniopharyngiomas treated from 1992 to 2010 in patients <18 years of age regarding clinical presentation, neuroimaging, recurrence, morbidity, and mortality, with particular attention to hypothalamic obesity.

RESULTS

Our cohort conformed to published data in regard to neuroimaging characteristics, and clinical findings in the areas of endocrine, visual, neurological, neurobehavioral, and hypothalamic domains. At last follow-up, 53% of our patients were overweight (8%) or obese (46%). Only 25% of our patients had a healthy body mass index. Contrasting these data with body mass indices at diagnosis, where 21% of patients were overweight and 17% were obese, we found that there was a significant trend towards obesity over time. A significant portion of our mortality appears to be related to complications of obesity. The Native American population in Arizona appears to have a statistically greater incidence of obesity in childhood. Despite our small sample size, 75% of our Native Americans were obese at last follow-up and accounted for 50% of the mortality.

CONCLUSION

Hypothalamic obesity is a significant complication of craniopharyngiomas associated with increased mortality. The development of hypothalamic obesity is influenced by premorbid obesity, genetics, and therapy received, specifically radiation. Because of the intractability of hypothalamic obesity, improved understanding of neuroendocrine mechanisms, genomics, and newer antiobesity medications will be necessary to curb this significant complication.

Tight junction protein claudin-1 is differentially expressed in craniopharyngioma subtypes and indicates invasive tumor growth

BACKGROUND

Claudins are tight junction proteins expressed in epithelial tissues that play important roles in cell polarity and adhesion. Altered distribution of claudin-1(CLDN1) affects cell mobility and tumor invasiveness. Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) represent epithelial tumors of the sellar region, consisting of adamantinomatous (adaCP) and papillary (papCP) variants. Their tendency to infiltrate surrounding brain structures complicates successful surgery. Reliable markers are required to predict tumor behavior and to establish individualized treatment protocols.

METHODS

We describe the distribution pattern of CLDN1 in a large cohort of 66 adaCPs, 21 papCPs, and 24 Rathke`s cleft cyst (RCC) cases using immunohistochemistry. CLDN1 mRNA levels were analyzed with qRT-PCR in 33 CP samples. The impact on the migration potential was studied in primary adaCP cell cultures (n = 11) treated with small interfering RNA (siRNA) for CLDN1. Furthermore, CLDN1 distribution patterns and expression levels were compared between invasive (n = 16) and noninvasive (n = 17) tumor groups.

RESULTS

PapCPs and RCCs exhibited a distinct homogenous and membranous expression pattern, whereas CLDN1 immunoreactivity appeared weaker and more heterogeneous in adaCPs. In the latter cases, whirl-like cell clusters showed complete absence of CLDN1. mRNA analysis confirmed reduced CLDN1 levels in adaCPs versus papCPs. Interestingly, invasive tumors exhibited significantly lower CLDN1 expression compared with noninvasive counterparts regardless of CP subtype. Accordingly, siRNA treatment for CLDN1 altered tumor cell migration in vitro.

CONCLUSION

CLDN1 represents a novel marker in the differential diagnosis of CP variants and RCCs. Low CLDN1 expression levels correlate with an invasive CP growth pattern and may serve as a prognostic marker.

Minimally invasive management of adult craniopharyngiomas: An analysis of our series and review of literature

Background:

Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) are slow growing tumors with an incidence of between 1.2% and 4.6%, having a bimodal age distribution typically peaking in childhood and in adults between 45 and 60 years. Recurrences occur even after documented gross total resections necessitating a combination of therapeutic strategies. Obtaining a cure of this tumor in adults without producing major side effects continues to remain elusive.

Methods:

We describe our results in 11 patients with CP treated in a minimally invasive fashion using a combination of techniques like burr hole aspiration, Ommaya reservoir placement, ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunting and focal radiation (Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery/Intensity modulated radiotherapy [GKRS/IMRT]).

Results:

Visual function remained intact in all patients; endocrine status remained stable with two patients developing new postoperative diabetes insipidus. There was no periprocedural morbidity or mortality, with hospital stays for any in-patient procedure being 48 hours or less.

Conclusions:

Minimally invasive techniques such as cyst aspiration, insertion of a catheter with Ommaya reservoir, when combined with stereotactic radiosurgery/IMRT is an effective and safe option for management and long-term control of adult CPs. We believe the Ommaya catheter by itself could act as a stent, creating a tract allowing gradual drainage of cyst fluid and stabilization without necessitating any further interventions in selected cases.

Incidence, predictors and early post-operative course of diabetes insipidus in paediatric craniopharygioma: a comparison with adults

PURPOSE

This study aims to determine the incidence, predictors, early post-operative course of diabetes insipidus (DI) in paediatric craniopharyngiomas(CP) and compare the findings with adults.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of clinical, biochemical, radiological and operative data for 102 consecutive CP surgeries (45 paediatric and 57 adult cases) was done. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were done to determine the predictors of DI. The incidence of the triphasic response and electrolyte abnormalities in the first post-operative week was compared between children and adults.

RESULTS

Children had larger tumours and higher incidence of cystic tumours and hydrocephalus. Preoperative DI was close to 15 % in both the age groups. Radical/subtotal excision was achieved in 58 % of children and 53 % of adults. The incidence of post-operative DI was 80 % and 63 % in children and adults, respectively. Children had significantly higher incidence of permanent DI (55.6 %). Radical excision in children (p = 0.000); previous tumour surgery (p = 0.014) and new onset hypopituitarism (p = 0.019) in adults were associated with permanent DI. The triphasic response (23 %), wide intra-day serum sodium fluctuations and hyponatraemia were more common in children.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-operative DI is a frequent and significant cause of morbidity in children undergoing surgery for CP. Children have a higher incidence of permanent DI. Radical excision is a predictor of permanent DI in children, whereas previous tumour excision and new onset hypopituitarism were predictors of permanent DI among adults. The management of post-operative DI is more difficult in children and the treating physician needs to be alert to detect the triphasic response.

Molecular oncogenesis of craniopharyngioma: current and future strategies for the development of targeted therapies

Craniopharyngiomas are benign intracranial tumors that arise in the suprasellar and intrasellar region in children and adults. They are associated with calcification on neuroimaging, endocrinopathies, vision problems, and recurrence following subtotal resection. Molecular studies into their genetic basis have been limited, and therefore targeted medical therapies for this tumor have eluded physicians. With the discovery of aberrant Wnt/β-catenin pathway signaling in the pathogenesis of the most common subtype of craniopharyngioma (adamantinomatous), the identification of candidate genes and proteins implicated in this cascade provide attractive targets for future therapies. The recent development of a genetically engineered animal model of this tumor may also serve as a platform for evaluating potential therapies prior to clinical trials in humans. Advances in understanding the molecular pathogenesis of tumor recurrence have also been made, providing clues to develop adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies to couple with tumor resection for optimal response rates. Finally, advances in genomic technologies and next-generation sequencing will underlie the translation of these genetic and molecular studies from the bench to clinical practice. In this review, the authors present an analysis of the molecular oncogenesis of craniopharyngioma and current directions in the development of novel therapies for these morbid, yet poorly understood brain tumors.

A systematic review of the results of surgery and radiotherapy on tumor control for pediatric craniopharyngioma

OBJECTIVE

Craniopharyngiomas are rare tumors with bimodal incidence in the pediatric and adult age groups. Treatment strategies range from aggressive resection to planned limited resection combined with adjuvant therapies. Currently there is no consensus for standard of care for pediatric craniopharyngioma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a systematic review of the published literature on pediatric craniopharyngioma. Patients were grouped based on extent of resection into gross total resection (GTR), subtotal resection (STR), and biopsy procedures. These groups were compared with respect to tumor control. Chi square was used to compare rates of recurrence. Kaplan-Meier was used to generate progression-free survival (PFS) estimates. Cox proportional hazard modeling was used to evaluate risk of progression. Each extent of resection group was also subdivided based on adjuvant therapy and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 109 studies described extent of resection resulting in a cohort of 531 patients. Recurrence data were available for 377 patients. There was no difference in 1- or 5-year PFS between the groups who underwent GTR and STR combined with radiation (XRT; log-rank; p = 0.76; 1-year PFS 89 vs 84%; 5-year PFS 77 vs 73%, respectively). One-year PFS was 84% for STR+XRT compared to 76% for STR alone while 5-year PFS was 73% for STR+XRT compared to 43% for STR alone (log-rank; p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Although there are limitations of a systematic review of retrospective data, our results suggest that STR+XRT of pediatric craniopharyngioma is associated with similar rates of tumor control as GTR.

Role of gamma knife radiosurgery in multimodality management of craniopharyngioma

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the use of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery (GKS) along with other surgical procedures in the management of craniopharyngioma.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients (17 children and 18 adults) with craniopharyngioma were treated with GKS between May 2008 and August 2011. The age of the patients ranged from 2 to 53 years (mean 20 years). There were 26 males and 9 females. Craniopharyngiomas were solid in 7 patients, cystic in 4, and mixed in 24. Tumor size ranged from 1 to 33.3 cm(3) (mean 12 cm(3)). The prescription dose ranged from 8 to 14 Gy (mean 11.5 Gy). Maximum dose ranged from 16 to 28 Gy (mean 23 Gy). Before GKS 11 patients underwent subtotal resection of the neoplasm, 2 - neuroendocopic fenestration of the large cystic component, and 10 - stereotactic aspiration of the neoplastic cyst content.

RESULTS

The length of follow-up period varied from 6 to 36 months (mean 22 months). The tumor response rate and control rate were 77.1 % and 88.5 %, respectively. Clinical outcome was considered excellent in 10 cases, good in 17, fair in 4, and poor in 4. No one patient with normal pituitary function before GKS developed hypopituitarism thereafter. Deterioration of the visual function after treatment was noted in one patient.

CONCLUSION

After GKS tumor control can be achieved in significant proportion of patients with craniopharyngioma. Treatment-related neurological morbidity in such cases is rare. Therefore, radiosurgery may be considered useful for management of these tumors.

Predictive factors for vision recovery after optic nerve decompression for chronic compressive neuropathy: systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives Surgical optic nerve decompression for chronic compressive neuropathy results in variable success of vision improvement. We sought to determine the effects of various factors using meta-analysis of available literature. Design Systematic review of MEDLINE databases for the period 1990 to 2010. Setting Academic research center. Participants Studies reporting patients with vision loss from chronic compressive neuropathy undergoing surgery. Main outcome measures Vision outcome reported by each study. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for predictor variables were calculated. Overall odds ratios were then calculated for each factor, adjusting for inter study heterogeneity. Results Seventy-six studies were identified. Factors with a significant odds of improvement were: less severe vision loss (OR 2.31[95% CI = 1.76 to 3.04]), no disc atrophy (OR 2.60 [95% CI = 1.17 to 5.81]), smaller size (OR 1.82 [95% CI = 1.22 to 2.73]), primary tumor resection (not recurrent) (OR 3.08 [95% CI = 1.84 to 5.14]), no cavernous sinus extension (OR 1.88 [95% CI = 1.03 to 3.43]), soft consistency (OR 4.91 [95% CI = 2.27 to 10.63]), presence of arachnoid plane (OR 5.60 [95% CI = 2.08 to 15.07]), and more extensive resection (OR 0.61 [95% CI = 0.4 to 0.93]). Conclusions Ophthalmologic factors and factors directly related to the lesion are most important in determining vision outcome. The decision to perform optic nerve decompression for vision loss should be made based on careful examination of the patient and realistic discussion regarding the probability of improvement.

Malignant transformation of craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngioma is a well recognised intracranial tumour; malignant transformation has been rarely described. In that case, malignant change occurred following irradiation for local recurrence and information is not provided on the biological behaviour of the tumour or the response to management. We report a further case of malignant transformation in recurrent craniopharyngioma following radiotherapy. The biological behaviour of malignant change in craniopharyngioma is uncertain so the treatment modalities require consideration of toxicity and other adverse sequelae balanced against anticipated outcome and comorbidities from previous treatments. The pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies are discussed. We review the possible pathogenic link between radiation therapy and malignant transformation.

Treatment-related morbidity and the management of pediatric craniopharyngioma: a systematic review

OBJECT

Craniopharyngiomas are benign tumors but their close anatomical relationship with critical neurological, endocrine, and vascular structures makes gross-total resection (GTR) with minimal morbidity difficult to achieve. Currently, there is controversy regarding the extent, timing, and modality of treatment for pediatric craniopharyngioma.

METHODS

The authors performed a systematic review of the published literature on pediatric craniopharyngioma to determine patterns of clinical practice and the reported outcomes of standard treatment strategies. This yielded 109 studies, which contained data describing extent of resection for a total of 531 patients. Differences in outcome were examined based upon extent of resection and choice of radiation treatment.

RESULTS

Gross-total resection was associated with increased rates of new endocrine dysfunction (OR 5.4, p < 0.001), panhypopituitarism (OR 7.8, p = 0.006), and new neurological deficits (OR 9.9, p = 0.03) compared with biopsy procedures. Subtotal resection (STR) was not associated with an increased rate of new neurological deficits. Gross-total was associated with increased rates of diabetes insipidus (OR 7.7, p = 0.05) compared with the combination of STR and radiotherapy (RT). The addition of RT to STR was associated with increased rates of panhypopituitarism (OR 9.9, p = 0.01) but otherwise similar rates of morbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Although subject to the limitations of a literature review, this report suggests that GTR is associated with increased rates of endocrinopathies compared with STR + RT, and this should be considered when planning goals of surgery.

Intracystic Bleomycin for Cystic Craniopharyngiomas in Children (Abridged Republication of Cochrane Systematic Review)

BACKGROUND:

Craniopharyngiomas are the most common benign histological tumors to involve the hypothalamopituitary region in childhood. When the tumor location is unfavorable, a gross total or partial resection followed by radiotherapy is the main treatment option in adults. However, it presents the risk of morbidity, especially for children. Intracystic bleomycin has been used to potentially delay the use of radiotherapy or radical resection to decrease morbidity.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the benefit and harm of intracystic bleomycin vs other treatments for cystic craniopharyngiomas in children.

METHODS:

We searched the electronic databases of CENTRAL, MEDLINE/PubMed, and EMBASE/Ovid with prespecified terms. In addition, we searched reference lists of relevant articles and reviews, conference proceedings, and ongoing trial databases.

RESULTS:

We could not identify any studies in which the only difference between the treatment groups was the use of intracystic bleomycin. We did identify a randomized, controlled trial comparing intracystic bleomycin with intracystic 32P (n = 7 children). The trial had a high risk of bias. Survival could not be evaluated. There was no evidence of a significant difference in cyst reduction, neurological status, third nerve paralysis, fever, or total adverse effects between the treatment groups. There was a significant difference in favor of the 32P group for the occurrence of headache and vomiting.

CONCLUSION:

Based on the currently available evidence, we are not able to give recommendations for the use of intracystic bleomycin in the treatment of cystic craniopharyngiomas in children. High-quality randomized, controlled trials are needed.

Endoscopic, endonasal resection of craniopharyngiomas: analysis of outcome including extent of resection, cerebrospinal fluid leak, return to preoperative productivity, and body mass index

BACKGROUND

The endoscopic, endonasal, extended transsphenoidal approach is a minimal-access technique for managing craniopharyngiomas. Outcome measures such as return to employment and body mass index (BMI) have not been reported and are necessary for comparison with open transcranial approaches. Most prior reports of the endoscopic, endonasal approach have reported unacceptably high cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak rates.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the outcome of endoscopic, endonasal surgery in a consecutive series of craniopharyngiomas with special attention to extent of resection, CSF leak, return to employment, and BMI.

METHODS

Twenty-six surgeries were performed on 24 patients at Weill Cornell Medical College-New York Presbyterian Hospital. Five patients had recurrent lesions. Gross-total resection (GTR) was attempted in 21 surgeries. Indications for intended subtotal resection were advanced age, medical comorbidities, preservation of pituitary function, and hypothalamic invasion.

RESULTS

Mean tumor diameter was 2.9 cm. GTR (18 surgeries) or near-total (>95%) resection (2 surgeries) was achieved in 95% when GTR was the goal. Seven patients received postoperative radiation therapy. Mean follow-up was 35 months with no recurrences in GTR cases and stable disease in all patients at last follow-up. Vision improved in 77%. Diabetes insipidus and panhypopituitarism developed in 42% and 38%, respectively. A more than 9% increase in BMI occurred in 39%; 69% returned to their preoperative profession/schooling. The postoperative CSF leak rate was 3.8%.

CONCLUSION

Minimal-access, endoscopic, endonasal surgery for craniopharyngioma can achieve high rates of GTR with low rates of CSF leak. Return to employment and obesity rates are comparable to microscope-assisted transcranial and transsphenoidal reports.

Predictive factors for craniopharyngioma recurrence: a systematic review and illustrative case report of a rapid recurrence

BACKGROUND

Recurrence of craniopharyngiomas (CPs) represents a frequent and unpredictable incident. Rapid tumor recurrence within a few months after surgery has been rarely reported. Nondefinitive predictive factors for rapid CP recurrence have been identified to date. We have systematically analyzed the tumor factors that presumably influence in CP recurrence.

METHODS

We present the histologic and immunohistochemical analysis of an infundibulo-tuberal CP that was operated twice within a 3-month interval due to rapid recurrence. We investigated the differential characteristics of the subgroup of CPs that recurred in large surgical series published in the literature, along with cases reporting rapid tumor recurrence after surgery.

RESULTS

Specimens of our patient showed an adamantinomatous CP with whorl-like arrays and thick peritumoral gliosis. Ki-67 labeling index in primary and recurrent samples was 20% and 15%, respectively. p53 labeling index was 18% and 15%, respectively. The thorough analysis of literature showed that presence of tumor remnants and missing radiotherapy treatment after subtotal removal are strong predictors of tumor recurrence. Third ventricle involvement, large tumor size, tight adherence to surrounding structures, and presence of whorl-like arrays might also foster recurrence. High Ki-67 levels, p53 expression, and an intense reactive gliosis might point to rapid tumor growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Reliable tumor markers that predict CP recurrence are still lacking. The CP features presumably related to a higher risk of its recurrence are thought to be a larger tumor size, a tight adherence to the hypothalamus, the presence of whorl-like arrays, and high Ki-67 and p53 levels.

Incidence, treatment and survival of patients with craniopharyngioma in the surveillance, epidemiology and end results program

Craniopharyngioma is a rare primary central nervous system neoplasm. Our objective was to determine factors associated with incidence, treatment, and survival of craniopharyngiomas in the United States. We used the surveillance, epidemiology and end results program (SEER) database to identify patients who received a diagnosis of craniopharyngioma during 2004-2008. We analyzed clinical and demographic information, including age, race, sex, tumor histology, and treatment. Age-adjusted incidence rates and age, sex, and race-adjusted expected survival rates were calculated. We used Cox proportional hazards models to determine the association between covariates and overall survival. We identified 644 patients with a diagnosis of craniopharyngioma. Black race was associated with an age-adjusted relative risk for craniopharyngioma of 1.26 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.98-1.59), compared with white race. One- and 3-year survival rates of 91.5% (95% CI, 88.9%-93.5%), and 86.2% (95% CI, 82.7%-89.0%) were observed for the cohort; relative survival rates were 92.1% (95% CI, 89.5%-94.0%) and 87.6% (95% CI, 84.1%-90.4%) for 1- and 3-years, respectively. In the multivariable model, factors associated with prolonged survival included younger age, smaller tumor size, subtotal resection, and radiation therapy. Black race, on the other hand, was associated with worse overall survival in the final model. We demonstrated that >85% of patients survived 3 years after diagnosis and that subtotal resection and radiation therapy were associated with prolonged survival. We also noted a higher incidence rate and worse 1- and 3-year survival rates in the black population. Future investigations should examine these racial disparities and focus on evaluating the efficacy of emerging treatment paradigms.

Impact of maximal safe resection on the clinical outcome of adults with craniopharyngiomas

Recent studies suggest that subtotal resection (STR) followed by adjuvant radiation therapy is an appealing alternative to gross total resection (GTR) for craniopharyngioma, as STR provides similar tumor control without the associated endocrinological and behavioral morbidity. We have examined the impact of maximal safe resection on the clinical outcome of patients with craniopharyngioma. A total of 90 patients underwent surgical resection of craniopharyngioma at a single institution between January 1995 and April 2009. Sixty-one patients underwent GTR alone, four underwent GTR followed by adjuvant radiotherapy, 15 underwent STR alone, and 10 underwent partial removal followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. We analyzed and compared the clinical and endocrinological outcomes and radiological follow-up data of these patients. During the follow-up period, tumor recurrence following the initial resection occurred in 36 of 90 patients (40%). The repeat resection rate was higher in the STR group than the GTR group. Recurrence occurred in 20 of 61 patients (32.8%) from the GTR alone group, in 11 of 15 patients (73.3%) from the STR alone group, and in five of 10 (50%) patients from the STR with adjuvant radiation, such as radiotherapy or stereotactic radiosurgery, group (p=0.030). Maximal safe resection of craniopharyngioma leads to excellent local control. STR with adjuvant radiation therapy does not assure preservation of endocrine function, although it provides better local control than STR alone.

Intracystic bleomycin for cystic craniopharyngiomas in children

BACKGROUND

Craniopharyngiomas are the commonest benign histological tumours to involve the hypothalamo-pituitary region in childhood. Cystic craniopharyngiomas occur in more than 90% of tumours. The optimal treatment of cystic craniopharyngioma remains controversial. Radical resection is the treatment of choice in patients with favourable tumour localization. When the tumour localization is unfavourable, a gross-total or partial resection followed by radiotherapy is the main treatment option in adults. However, it presents risk of morbidity especially for children. Intracystic bleomycin has been utilized to potentially delay the use of radiotherapy or radical resection to decrease morbidity.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the benefits and harms of intracystic bleomycin versus other treatments for cystic craniopharyngiomas in children.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the electronic databases of CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2010, Issue 4), MEDLINE/PubMed (from 1966 to Oct 2010), and EMBASE/Ovid (from 1980 to Oct 2010) with pre-specified terms. In addition, we searched reference lists of relevant articles and reviews, conference proceedings and ongoing trial databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) quasi-randomised trials or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing intracystic bleomycin and other treatments for cystic craniopharyngiomas in children (from birth to 18 years).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed the data extraction and the 'Risk of bias' assessment. We used risk ratio (RR) for binary data and mean difference (MD) for continuous data. We planned that if one of the treatment groups experienced no events and there was only one study available for the outcome, we would use the Fischer's exact test.

MAIN RESULTS

We could not identify any studies in which the only difference between the treatment groups was the use of intracystic bleomycin. We did identify a RCT comparing intracystic bleomycin with intracystic (32)P (n = 7 children). The trial had a high risk of bias. Survival could not be evaluated. There was no evidence of a significant difference in cyst reduction (MD = -0.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.69 to 0.39, P= 0.59), neurological status (Fisher's exact P = 0.429), 3rd nerve paralysis (Fischer's exact P = 1.00), fever (RR = 2.92, 95% CI 0.73 to 11.70, P = 0.13) and total adverse effects (RR = 1.75, 95% CI 0.68 to 4.53, P = 0.25 ) between the treatment groups. There was a significant difference in favour of the (32)P group for the occurrence of headache and vomiting (Fischer's exact P = 0.029 for both outcomes).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Since no RCTs, quasi-randomised trials or CCTs in which only the use of intracystic bleomycin differed between the treatment groups in the treatment of cystic craniopharyngiomas in children, no definitive conclusions could be made about the effects of intracystic bleomycin in these patients. Only one low-power RCT comparing intracystic bleomycin with intracystic (32)P treatment was available, but no definitive conclusions can be made about the effectiveness of these agents in children with cystic craniopharyngiomas. Based on the currently available evidence, we are not able to give recommendations for the use of intracystic bleomycin in the treatment of cystic craniopharyngiomas in children. High quality RCTs are needed.

The superiority of conservative resection and adjuvant radiation for craniopharyngiomas

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the roles of resection extent and adjuvant radiation in the treatment of craniopharyngiomas. We reviewed the records of 122 patients ages 11-52 years who received primary treatment for craniopharyngioma between 1980 and 2009 at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Primary endpoints were progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary endpoints were development of panhypopituitarism, diabetes insipidus (DI), and visual field defects. Of 122 patients, 30 (24%) were treated with gross total resection (GTR) without radiation therapy (RT), 3 (3%) with GTR + RT, 41 (33.6%) with subtotal resection (STR) without RT, and 48 (39.3%) with STR + RT. Median age at diagnosis was 30 years, with 46 patients 18 years or younger. Median follow-up for all patients was 56.4 months (interquartile range 18.9-144.2 months) and 47 months (interquartile range 12.3-121.8 months) for the 60 patients without progression. Fifty six patients progressed, 10 have died, 6 without progression. Median PFS was 61.1 months for all patients. PFS rate at 2 years was 61.5% (95% CI: 52.1-70.9). OS rate at 10 years was 91.1% (95% CI 84.3-97.9). There was no significant difference in PFS and OS between patients treated with GTR vs. STR + XRT (PFS; p = 0.544, OS; p = 0.735), but STR alone resulted in significantly shortened PFS compared to STR + RT or GTR (p < 0.001 for both). STR was associated with significantly shortened OS compared to STR + RT (p = 0.050) and trended to shorter OS compared to GTR (p = 0.066). GTR was associated with significantly greater risk of developing DI (56.3 vs. 13.3% with STR + XRT, p < 0.001) and panhypopituitarism (54.8 vs. 26.7% with STR + XRT, p = 0.014). In conclusion, for patients with craniopharyngioma, STR + RT may provide superior clinical outcome, achieving better disease control than STR and limiting side effects associated with aggressive surgical resection.

The impact of the site of origin and rate of tumour growth on clinical outcome in children with craniopharyngiomas

OBJECTIVES

Data on many predictors of hypothalamic-pituitary axis dysfunction associated with childhood craniopharyngioma (CP) are rather inconsistent, probably reflecting the variable but as yet unclarified growth pattern of these tumours. The aim of this study was to define the determinative role of tumour growth pattern on hypothalamic-pituitary axis function and outcomes for childhood CPs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively analysed the records of 81 consecutive children with primary CP who underwent a uniform treatment paradigm of attempted radical resection performed by a single surgeon. The patients were divided into two subgroups based on tumour location and growth patterns: group A (infra-diaphragmatic sellar tumours: 34 cases) and group B [third ventricular floor (3rd VF) tumours: 47 cases]. The children's pre- and postsurgical endocrinological and hypothalamic disturbances were compared. Pituitary function and hypothalamic statues were quantitatively assessed using classification systems proposed in the previous studies.

RESULTS

Preoperative pituitary function was more severely compromised in patients in group A than those in group B and deteriorated significantly following resection in both groups. (Average pituitary function scores increased from 2·19 ± 0·83 to 3·31 ± 0·74, P < 0·001). At the last follow-up, children with 3rd VF tumours had more prevalent weight gain (median body mass index: 23·1 kg/m(2) in group B vs 19·7 kg/m(2) in group A, P < 0·001) and increased hypothalamic dysfunction (average hypothalamic status scores: 2·04 ± 0·97 in group B vs 1·29 ± 0·57 in group A, P < 0·001). Children with 3rd VF tumours had a significantly lower probability of recurrence-free survival than those with sellar tumours (at 5 years: 74%vs 49%, respectively; at 10 years: 66%vs 32%, respectively; P = 0·02).

CONCLUSIONS

Substantial differences in the outcome of childhood CP with different tumour growth patterns and locations were found, which suggested that diverse therapeutic considerations, especially endocrinological substitution, might be emphasized.

Treatment strategies in childhood craniopharyngioma

The surgical management of craniopharyngiomas in children remains one of the more controversial topics in pediatric neurosurgery. Theoretically, the benign histology implies that total surgical excision would be sufficient to provide a cure. It has been widely established however, that in certain cases total excision may lead to unacceptable hypothalamic injury. The therapeutic goals for pediatric craniopharyngiomas therefore, require not just cure of the disease but also preservation of function. Over the last 15 years, there has been a growing worldwide advocacy for less extensive resection and for the utilization of multimodality therapy to limit morbidity. With this in mind, risk-adapted strategies designed to preserve hypothalamic structures have been developed. The preliminary results of these strategies appear to be encouraging. However, the long-term clinical outcome in terms of post irradiation complications and management of relapses is currently unknown.

Craniopharyngioma in adults

Craniopharyngiomas are slow growing benign tumors of the sellar and parasellar region with an overall incidence rate of approximately 1.3 per million. During adulthood there is a peak incidence between 40 and 44 years. There are two histopathological types, the adamantinomatous and the papillary type. The later type occurs almost exclusively in adult patients. The presenting symptoms develop over years and display a wide spectrum comprising visual, endocrine, hypothalamic, neurological, and neuropsychological manifestations. Currently, the main treatment option consists in surgical excision followed by radiation therapy in case of residual tumor. Whether gross total or partial resection should be preferred has to be balanced on an individual basis considering the extent of the tumor (e.g., hypothalamic invasion). Although the overall long-term survival is good it is often associated with substantial morbidity. Preexisting disorders are often permanent or even exacerbated by treatment. Endocrine disturbances need careful replacement and metabolic sequelae should be effectively treated. Regular follow-up by a multidisciplinary team is a prerequisite for optimal outcome of these patients.

Infundibulo-tuberal or not strictly intraventricular craniopharyngioma: evidence for a major topographical category

PURPOSE

This study investigates retrospectively the clinical, neuroradiological, pathological and surgical evidence verifying the infundibulo-tuberal topography for craniopharyngiomas (CPs). Infundibulo-tuberal CPs represent a surgical challenge due to their close anatomical relationships with the hypothalamus. An accurate definition of this topographical category is essential in order to prevent any undue injury to vital diencephalic centres.

METHODS

A systematic review of all scientific reports involving pathological, neuroradiological or surgical descriptions of either well-described individual cases or large series of CPs published in official journals and text books from 1892 to 2011 was carried out. A total of 1,232 documents providing pathological, surgical and/or neuroradiological evidence for the infundibulo-tuberal or hypothalamic location of CPs were finally analysed in this study.

FINDINGS

For a total of 3,571 CPs included in 67 pathological, surgical or neuroradiological series, 1,494 CPs (42%) were classified as infundibulo-tuberal lesions. This topography was proved in the autopsy of 122 non-operated cases. The crucial morphological finding characterizing the tubero-infundibular topography was the replacement of the third ventricle floor by a lesion with a predominant intraventricular growth. This type of CP usually presents a circumferential band of tight adherence to the third ventricle floor remnants, formed by a functionless layer of rective gliosis of a variable thickness. After complete surgical removal of an infundibulo-tuberal CP, a wide defect or breach at the floor of the third ventricle is regularly observed both in the surgical field and on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Infundibulo-tuberal CPs represent a major topographical category of lesions with a primary subpial development at the floor of the third ventricle. These lesions expand within the hypothalamus itself and subsequently occupy the third ventricle; consequently, they can be classified as not strictly intraventricular CPs. A tight attachment to the hypothalamus and remnants of the third ventricle floor is the pathological landmark of infundibulo-tuberal CPs.

The therapeutic efficacy of fractionated radiotherapy and gamma-knife radiosurgery for craniopharyngiomas

There is no consensus regarding the optimal timing of radiation treatment (RT) for residual or recurrent craniopharyngioma or the preferred treatment modality between fractionated radiotherapy (FRT) and gamma-knife radiosurgery (GKRS) in terms of morbidity and efficacy. This study aims to clarify the optimal timing of RT for residual or recurrent tumors by analyzing the outcomes of RT as a salvage or adjunctive treatment, and to compare the therapeutic efficacy of FRT and GKRS. Between April 1995 and November 2009, 50 of 129 patients received RT for recurrent or residual tumors. The patients were analyzed for medical data, endocrine outcome, long-term morbidity and mortality rates, recurrence rates, and responses to adjuvant RT and GKRS. Mean progression-free survival was 92.5 months (95% confidence interval, 70.9-114.1 months). Univariate analysis revealed that pre-irradiation tumor volume was closely related to better prognosis (p=0.01). We found that there was no significant difference in recurrence between patients treated with adjuvant compared to salvage RT (p>0.05). Although we found no difference in the efficacy of FRT and GKRS, five patients were newly diagnosed with hypopituitarism following RT. We concluded that RT has a very high rate of tumor control after both adjuvant or salvage RT. This study highlights the relative safety and efficacy of FRT and GKRS.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9, type IV collagen and vascular endothelial growth factor in adamantinous craniopharyngioma

To explore the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), type IV collagen (Col IV) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) and analyze the correlation between the level of these markers and adamantimous craniopharyngiomas recurrence. Expressions of MMP-9, Col IV and VEGF were tested by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 40 cases of ACP, including 24 cases of primary group and 16 cases of recurred group. The expression level of MMP-9 and VEGF in recurred group were significantly higher than primary group (93.7% vs. 41.7%, P < 0.05, 87.5% vs. 45.8%, P < 0.05, respectively). The expression of Col IV in the recurred group was significant different from the primary group (Z = -2.619, P < 0.05). MMP-9, Col IV and VEGF may be the potential specific bio-marker related to the recurrence of ACP.

Benefit of 1.5-T intraoperative MR imaging in the surgical treatment of craniopharyngiomas

BACKGROUND

As low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has very limited significance for intraoperative control of total tumor removal (TTR), we examined the influence of 1.5-T MRI, incorporating higher resolution into the intraoperative strategy of craniopharyngioma surgery.

METHODS

Surgery with intraoperative imaging was performed in 25 selected patients in whom tumor resection was anticipated to be difficult according to pre-operative findings.

RESULTS

Intraoperative MRI confirmed the intended extent of tumor removal in 15 patients (14 TTRs, one intended incomplete removal, while a second procedure was scheduled due to complex shape). Misinterpretation was false positive or negative in one patient each. The extent of removal was not achieved as expected in eight patients (expectation: seven TTRs, one incomplete removal). In three patients, the expected TTR was achieved by resuming surgery. In another case, that goal was accomplished by performing an unscheduled second procedure. In total, by using intraoperative imaging, the rate of TTR was increased by 16% (four patients), leading to 80% in the entire series. Compared with the literature, the rate of new ophthalmologic and endocrine deficits is acceptable; the rate of other surgical complication is slightly higher but not directly caused by intraoperative imaging.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative 1.5-T MRI provides benefits because of good early prediction of TTR (sensitivity, positive predictive value: 93.8%; specificity, negative predictive value: 88.9%) and a low rate of false-positive results. Moreover, extended resection of remnants visualized is enabled and helps to increase the rate of TTR but does not exclude recurrence.

A rare case of ectopic recurrence of a craniopharyngioma diagnosed 17 years after initial presentation

Ectopic recurrence of craniopharyngioma 17 years after initial diagnosis is exceedingly rare in pediatric neuro-oncology. Only 23 cases of ectopic recurrence in children with craniopharyngioma are described in the literature with a median time to recurrence of 3 years. We describe a patient diagnosed at 5 years of age, presenting with neck pain and ataxia 17 years after diagnosis. Her original follow-up care was fragmented and included surveillance imaging for 10 years after surgery and endocrine management of panhypopituitarism. Rare, extremely late relapse of this tumor highlights the importance of extended multidisciplinary follow-up care that includes neuro-oncologists in a late-effects/survivorship program.

Coexistence of adamantinomatous and squamous-papillary type craniopharyngioma: case report and discussion of etiology and pathology

Craniopharyngiomas are histopathologically classified as adamantinomatous type (AD) and squamous-papillary type (SP). However coexistence of a mixed type seen on histopathologic specimens has not been reported. In this report, a patient diagnosed with mixed type craniopharyngioma is presented and the etiology and pathologic features are discussed.

On the benefits and risks of proton therapy in pediatric craniopharyngioma

PURPOSE

Craniopharyngioma is a pediatric brain tumor whose volume is prone to change during radiation therapy. We compared photon- and proton-based irradiation methods to determine the effect of tumor volume change on target coverage and normal tissue irradiation in these patients.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

For this retrospective study, we acquired imaging and treatment-planning data from 14 children with craniopharyngioma (mean age, 5.1 years) irradiated with photons (54 Gy) and monitored by weekly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations during radiation therapy. Photon intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), double-scatter proton (DSP) therapy, and intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) plans were created for each patient based on his or her pre-irradiation MRI. Target volumes were contoured on each weekly MRI scan for adaptive modeling. The measured differences in conformity index (CI) and normal tissue doses, including functional sub-volumes of the brain, were compared across the planning methods, as was target coverage based on changes in target volumes during treatment.

RESULTS

CI and normal tissue dose values of IMPT plans were significantly better than those of the IMRT and DSP plans (p < 0.01). Although IMRT plans had a higher CI and lower optic nerve doses (p < 0.01) than did DSP plans, DSP plans had lower cochlear, optic chiasm, brain, and scanned body doses (p < 0.01). The mean planning target volume (PTV) at baseline was 54.8 cm(3), and the mean increase in PTV was 11.3% over the course of treatment. The dose to 95% of the PTV was correlated with a change in the PTV; the R(2) values for all models, 0.73 (IMRT), 0.38 (DSP), and 0.62 (IMPT), were significant (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with photon IMRT, proton therapy has the potential to significantly reduce whole-brain and -body irradiation in pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma. IMPT is the most conformal method and spares the most normal tissue; however, it is highly sensitive to target volume changes, whereas the DSP method is not.

Management of recurrent craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngioma accounts for approximately 1.2% to 4.6% of all intracranial tumours. Their close proximity to vital structures such as the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and optic apparatus makes them one of the most challenging and controversial management dilemmas in neurosurgery. Recurrence following initial transcranial resection is reported as 9% to 51% at a median time of 26 months to 96 months. Treatment options for recurrent craniopharyngioma include repeat surgery, radiotherapy, radiosurgery and intracystic therapies. We present a series of 54 recurrent craniopharyngiomas treated at The Royal Melbourne Hospital between 1991 and 2008 and discuss the management options now available.

Endocrinologic, neurologic, and visual morbidity after treatment for craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngiomas are locally aggressive tumors which typically are focused in the sellar and suprasellar region near a number of critical neural and vascular structures mediating endocrinologic, behavioral, and visual functions. The present study aims to summarize and compare the published literature regarding morbidity resulting from treatment of craniopharyngioma. We performed a comprehensive search of the published English language literature to identify studies publishing outcome data of patients undergoing surgery for craniopharyngioma. Comparisons of the rates of endocrine, vascular, neurological, and visual complications were performed using Pearson's chi-squared test, and covariates of interest were fitted into a multivariate logistic regression model. In our data set, 540 patients underwent surgical resection of their tumor. 138 patients received biopsy alone followed by some form of radiotherapy. Mean overall follow-up for all patients in these studies was 54 ± 1.8 months. The overall rate of new endocrinopathy for all patients undergoing surgical resection of their mass was 37% (95% CI = 33-41). Patients receiving GTR had over 2.5 times the rate of developing at least one endocrinopathy compared to patients receiving STR alone or STR + XRT (52 vs. 19 vs. 20%, χ(2) P < 0.00001). On multivariate analysis, GTR conferred a significant increase in the risk of endocrinopathy compared to STR + XRT (OR = 3.45, 95% CI = 2.05-5.81, P < 0.00001), after controlling for study size and the presence of significant hypothalamic involvement. There was a statistical trend towards worse visual outcomes in patients receiving XRT after STR compared to GTR or STR alone (GTR = 3.5% vs. STR 2.1% vs. STR + XRT 6.4%, P = 0.11). Given the difficulty in obtaining class 1 data regarding the treatment of this tumor, this study can serve as an estimate of expected outcomes for these patients, and guide decision making until these data are available.

Nasal craniopharyngioma: case report and literature review

OBJECTIVE

We report the first case in the English language literature of an adamantinomatous infrasellar craniopharyngioma, and we describe our management strategy.

CASE REPORT

A 46-year-old woman presented with a six-month history of left-sided nasal obstruction and epistaxis. Rhinological examination revealed a left-sided, polypoidal lesion lying medial to the middle turbinate. An urgent examination under anaesthesia was organised; biopsies were considered characteristic of craniopharyngioma. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography demonstrated a well defined, heterogeneous, infrasellar mass centred in the midline, extending anteriorly into the left nasal cavity and posteriorly encasing both internal carotid arteries. Craniofacial resection was performed via a midfacial degloving approach, with adjuvant radiotherapy. The patient was disease-free one year post-operatively.

CONCLUSION

Craniopharyngiomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a unilateral nasal polyp. Although technically benign, they are locally aggressive. Therefore, we recommend complete excision with adjuvant radiotherapy if margins are involved or close.

Outcomes of Gamma Knife surgery for craniopharyngiomas

Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) has emerged as a valuable adjuvant treatment modality for recurrent or residual craniopharyngioma. However, prognostic factors pertaining to progression-free survival (PFS) remain poorly understood. A study was conducted to address this issue. A total of 37 consecutive patients undergoing 39 sessions of GKS procedures targeting the solid portions of the tumors at our institution between 1989 and 2005 were analyzed. Twenty-one male and 16 female patients comprised this study. Median age at GKS was 36 years (range, 4-78). Median tumor volume was 1.6 cm(3) (range, 0.1-18.6), median marginal dose was 14.5 Gy (range, 6-25), and median maximal dose was 30 Gy (range, 15.6-60). Median follow-up was 50 months (range, 8-212). Univariate and multivariate analyses using Cox proportional hazards model were employed to identify the potential prognostic factors including tumor volume, marginal dose, gender, age at GKS, and status of visual field defect (VFD) in terms of in-field PFS. The actuarial 3- and 5-year in-field PFS were 84.8 and 67.0%, respectively. On univariate analysis, absence of VFD at GKS was a favorable prognostic factor (hazard ratio: 0.279; 95% CI, 0.085-0.913, P = 0.035), whereas on multivariate analysis, absence of VFD at GKS, tumor volume ≤1.6 cm(3), and marginal dose >14.5 Gy related to a longer in-field PFS. GKS may offer reasonable control of recurrent or residual craniopharyngiomas. There was a consistent correlation between absence of VFD at the time of GKS and in-field PFS.