Adamantinomatous Craniopharyngioma

Higher magnification of a nodule of wet keratin composed of anucleated squames (ghost cells). The optimal treatment of craniopharyngioma is controversial. Given the location of the tumor (sellar/suprasellar region), complete resection is technically challenging and risks damaging optic chiasm and the hypothalamo-pituitary axis. Other approaches include subtotal resection with observation, cyst aspiration, intracystic administration of bleomycin, and radiation therapy. Five-year survival rates are excellent; however, many patients require lifelong pituitary hormone replacement.