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Craniopharyngioma in children
Y Khafaga1, D Jenkin, I Kanaan
1Department of Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics
|November 7, 1998
Summary
Pediatric craniopharyngioma treatment outcomes were analyzed. Postoperative irradiation after subtotal resection significantly improved progression-free survival in children, warranting further evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Craniopharyngioma is a rare brain tumor affecting children.
- Patients often present with advanced disease and significant morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze treatment regimens, morbidity, and survival rates for pediatric craniopharyngioma.
- To evaluate outcomes based on surgical extent and radiotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 56 children treated between 1975-1996.
- Focus on 44 patients undergoing first definitive resection.
- Surgical approaches included total, subtotal, or lesser resections, with or without postoperative irradiation.
Main Results:
- Ten-year survival, progression-free, and event-free survival rates were 65%, 39%, and 29%, respectively.
- Patients with less than total resection without radiotherapy had no 5-year progression-free survival.
- Five irradiated patients after lesser resection remained progression-free.
Conclusions:
- Selective total resection and routine postoperative irradiation after subtotal resection need evaluation.
- Radiotherapy may be crucial for improving outcomes in pediatric craniopharyngioma.