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Cystic craniopharyngioma treated by 90yttrium silicate colloid
J A Guevara1, H J Bunge, J J Heinrich
1Centro de Radiocirugía Neurológica, Clínica del Sol, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Acta Neurochirurgica. Supplementum
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Intracavitary Yttrium-90 (90Y) radiotherapy offers a promising treatment for cystic craniopharyngiomas, potentially avoiding severe neuro-endocrinologic side effects associated with open surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Radiotherapy
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Cystic craniopharyngiomas are tumors often requiring complex treatment.
- Traditional treatments like open surgery can lead to significant neuro-endocrinologic complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intracavitary Yttrium-90 (90Y) radiotherapy for cystic craniopharyngiomas.
- To assess the potential of this technique to minimize adverse effects compared to conventional surgery.
Main Methods:
- Seventeen patients (14 children, 3 adults) with cystic craniopharyngiomas received intracavitary 90Y treatment.
- Leksell's stereotactic technique with CAT scans was used for precise targeting.
- Dosimetry was calculated using Loevinger's formula, delivering 20,000 rads to the cystic wall.
Main Results:
- No isotope leakage was detected via gamma chamber studies post-injection.
- Most patients resumed normal activities; one patient with multiple cysts died.
- No significant changes in endocrinologic profiles were observed.
Conclusions:
- Intracavitary 90Y radiotherapy appears to be a safe and effective treatment for cystic craniopharyngiomas.
- This method shows potential for avoiding the severe neuro-endocrinologic sequelae often seen with open surgical approaches.
