Most tumors of the pineal region are germ cell tumors.
Common primary tumors of the pineal region include Keimzellturmoren: Germinomas (most common), choriocarcinoma, yolk sac tumors and teratomas. Less common primary Epiphysentumoren include Pinealome and the rare malignant pineoblastomas.
Most tumors of the pineal region are germ cell tumors. Common primary tumors of the pineal region include Keimzellturmoren: Germinomas (most common), choriocarcinoma, yolk sac tumors and teratomas. Less common primary Epiphysentumoren include Pinealome and the rare malignant pineoblastomas. Tumors of the pineal region tend to occur more during childhood, but can occur at any age. These tumors can increase Sylvii intracranial pressure due to compression of the aqueduct. You can also create a vertical gaze palsy, ptosis and the failure of the light and Akkommodationsreaktion of the pupils. This is caused by compression of the pretectal area rostral to the superior colliculi (Parinaud’s syndrome). The tumors can trigger precocious puberty, v. a. in boys, probably because the hypothalamus is compressed. Depending on the tumor type ?-HCG, or ?-fetoprotein can be elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid. Elevated levels speak for the diagnosis; the mirror may be controlled in the course to monitor the response to therapy. Prognosis and treatment depend on the tumor histology. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery and radiosurgery are used alone or in combination. Germinomas are very sensitive to radiation therapy and are often cured.