Doughjoe, 38

Cranio Pharyngioma brain tumor A craniopharyngioma is a benign tumor that develops near the pituitary gland (a small endocrine gland at the base of the brain).

Causes
This tumor most commonly affects children 5 - 10 years of age. Adults can sometimes be affected. Boys and girls are equally likely to develop this condition.

Increased pressure on the brain causes headache, nausea, vomiting (especially in the morning), and difficulty with balance.

Damage to the pituitary gland causes hormone imbalances that can lead to excessive thirst, excessive urination, and stunted growth.

When the optic nerve is damaged by the tumor, vision problems develop. These defects are often permanent, and may get worse after surgery to remove the tumor.

Behaviorial and learning problems may be present.

Most patients have at least some vision problems and evidence of decreased hormone production at the time of diagnosis.