Craniopharyngioma causes

Overview

There are two histological phenotypes seen in craniopharyngioma; the adamantinomatous tumours, seen in children, that resemble enamel forming neoplasm's in the oropharynx and the squamous papillary form, predominantly seen in adults. The characteristic location of these tumours in the sellar and para-sellar region, together with the different histological subtypes, allows for two theories that may explain the origin of these tumours.

Causes

• Craniopharyngioma is a nonglial intracranial tumor derived from a malformation of embryonic tissue.
• There are differing hypotheses on its embryonic origin.
• The caause of craniopharygioma is although not completely understood.
• Some authorities advocate that it originates from ectodermal remnants of Rathke's pouch.
• Few pathologists believe that it originates from residual embryonal epithelium of the anterior pituitary gland and of the anterior infundibulum.