Pinealocytoma

Pinealocytoma

Article
Brain & Nerve
Eye & Vision
+2
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBADec 02, 2020

The topic Pinealocytoma you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Pineocytoma.

Quick Summary:

  • A Pineocytoma is a type of brain tumor. A brain tumor may be described as a mass of abnormally growing cells arising from the brain tissue (brain parenchyma and meninges) or the spinal cord (central spine). The brain along-with the spinal cord constitute the central nervous system (CNS) of the body
  • Broadly, brain tumors are classified as benign (non-cancerous) and malignant. Malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread or metastasize to other regions of the body. They generally exhibit rapid growth and, in some cases, may present symptoms during the early stages of development
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies central nervous system tumors according to their grade and histological subtypes. A tumor subtype is determined by a pathologist after examining a tissue biopsy of the tumor under the microscope. This WHO classification system is used by healthcare professionals all over the world in diagnosing and treating these tumors
  • Pineocytomas are rare and slow-growing tumors that arise in the vicinity of the pineal gland. It is usually diagnosed in young adults. Pineocytoma is a WHO grade I brain tumor, meaning that is designated as “low-grade”. Grade I tumors are the most benign of the tumors. They are slow-growing and are not known to infiltrate into the surrounding tissues. They offer a very high chance for surgery to be curative; and thus, have the best prognosis among all brain tumors with long-term survival being noted
  • Per WHO, Pineocytoma forms a part of a group designated as “tumors of the pineal region”. The pineal gland, also termed the epiphysis cerebri or pineal body, is a small endocrine gland weighing between 0.1-0.2 grams that is located at the base of the brain. It is attached to the roof of the third ventricle in front of the cerebellum. The pineal gland produces melatonin that helps regulate circadian rhythms (sleep patterns)
  • The cause of formation of Pineocytomas are not well-established. It is reported that a combination of several factors may play a role in their formation, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-related. The risk factors may include the presence of certain genetic disorders, exposure to ionized radiation, viral infections, and head trauma
  • The signs and symptoms of Pineocytoma may include headaches, nausea and vomiting, memory impairment, and vision and hearing problems. These tumors may compress the aqueduct of Sylvius, a duct through which the cerebrospinal fluid flows, resulting in increased intracranial pressure and hydrocephalus. Complications may develop during/from treatment of the condition too
  • The treatment for Pineocytoma primarily involves surgery and radiation therapy; the use of chemotherapy is reportedly not well-established. The prognosis for individuals with Pineocytoma depend on a wide variety of factors, including the size and location of the tumor in the pineal region, and severity of the signs and symptoms. In many, the prognosis is good with complete tumor removal and management of post-operative complications, if any

Please find comprehensive information on Pineocytoma regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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