Clinical and morphological studies of pineal tumours

This is a report of clinical, morphological, diagnostic, endocrinological and therapeutical experiences with 18 patients with tumours in the pineal region. The histological diagnosis was verified in four cases by autopsy, in seven cases by biopsy, and in one case by microscopical verification of tumour cells in the CSF. In all biopsy cases we are dealing with typical germinomas. In the other clinical cases diagnosis was made by neuroradiological and endocrinological methods. The localization was possible by encephalotomography or CT scan, according to Kageyama, Particular attention was given to the endocrinological dysfunctions which originate in the hypothalamus. Also the hypothalamic dysfunctions after irradiation were discussed. Since the results of primary surgical approach and biopsy have been unsatisfactory, we preferred a non-operative schedule for treatment of pineal tumours.