Re: HELP!

Posted By ccf neuro M.D. on June 02, 1997 at 18:10:19:

In Reply to: HELP! posted by Mike Mccoy on May 28, 1997 at 14:10:33:







: My pituitary brain-tumor , is to close to my optical nervs and I supposedly cant be treated, because of blindnes. so be prepard!



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Mike, I'm not sure what exactly it is you're trying to ask with your question, but types of pitutary region tumors include pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, and meningiomas. Pituitary adenomas are tumors of the pituitary gland tissue itself. Craniopharyngiomas are tumors that arise from some leftover tissue from a structure called the Rathke's pouch that forms and disappears before you are even born. Meningiomas are tumors that arise from the coverings of the bone and brain in this area. Whether or not a tumor is treatable depends on what type of tumor it is, how tightly it might be clinging to nearby important structures like the optic nerves, carotid arteries, and overlying areas of brain like the hypothalamus. In such cases, if surgery is not an option, radiation therapy and in some cases non-chemotherapy medicines for hormone secreting pituitary adenomas are alternative treatments. In any such case, a second opinion may be worth seriously considering; on occasion you may find a surgeon willing to at least "debulk" or partially remove the tumor, depending on their level of aggressiveness and expertise. Information provided in the Neurology Forum is intended for general medical informational purposes only. Actual diagnosis and treatment of your specific medical illness should be strictly in conjunction with your treating physicians. If you would be interested in a second opinion at the Cleveland Clinic, our appointment number (neurosurgery/brain tumor clinic) is 1-800-223-2273 extension 45670, or direct 216-444-5670. We hope you find the information provided useful.