Hypopituitarism oddities: craniopharyngiomas

Craniopharyngiomas are tumours associated with significant long-term pituitary dysfunction. The rates of anterior pituitary hormone deficits are not influenced by treatment modality and do not differ between childhood- and adult-onset disease. The apparent paradox of growth in the absence of growth hormone (GH) has been reported in children with this tumour and is not, as yet, completely understood. GH replacement therapy offers significant benefits for both children and adults (although adult patients are less likely to lose weight or body fat). Based on results of retrospective studies, GH therapy does not seem to increase the risk of tumour recurrence.