Craniopharyngioma Across the Lifespan: A Large Single-Center Cohort Study of Surgical Outcomes, Endocrine Morbidity, and Long-Term Disease Control
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objective: Craniopharyngiomas are rare epithelial tumors of the sellar-suprasellar region associated with significant neurologic, endocrine, and metabolic morbidity. Long-term outcome data across the lifespan from low- and middle-income settings remain limited. We aimed to characterize clinical presentation, surgical outcomes, endocrine morbidity, mortality, long-term disease control, and the safety of growth hormone therapy. Methods: This retrospective observational study included patients with histologically confirmed craniopharyngioma managed at a tertiary-care center. Clinical, biochemical, radiologic, surgical, histopathologic, and follow-up data were analyzed. Tumors were classified as adamantinomatous or papillary. Surgical approaches, complications, tumor progression, endocrine outcomes, retreatment, mortality, and growth hormone therapy-related outcomes were evaluated. Results: , with 20% classified as giant tumors. Residual or progressive disease occurred in 62.6% of patients, and 32.1% required retreatment. Postoperative anterior pituitary deficiency occurred in 98.1% and immediate postoperative arginine vasopressin deficiency in 90.1% of patients, and obesity was frequent during follow-up. Tumor progression did not differ between surgical approaches; however, cerebrospinal fluid-related complications were more frequent after transsphenoidal surgery. Thirty-three deaths occurred during follow-up. Rare presentations included cerebellar ataxia, bobble-head doll syndrome, malignant transformation, ectopic tumors, inflammatory pituitary pathology, and refractory disease. Conclusion: Craniopharyngioma is associated with substantial lifelong morbidity despite benign histology. Multidisciplinary, risk-adapted management strategies prioritizing functional preservation and long-term endocrine care are essential.
Source: AACE Endocrinology and Diabetes
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7172261129