Characteristics
- Most common in the parasellar region, an area at the base of the brain and near the optic nerves
- Also grows in the regions of the optic nerves and the hypothalamus, near the pituitary gland
- Tends to be low grade
- Often accompanied by a cyst
- Originates in cells left over from early fetal development
- Occurs in children and men and women in their 50s and 60s
Symptoms
- Headaches
- Visual changes
- Weight gain
- Delayed development in children
Treatment
Surgery is the most common treatment. Radiation therapy may be used.
