Characteristics

• Most common in the parasellar region, an area at the base of the brain and near the optic nerves
• Also grows in the regions of the optic nerves and the hypothalamus, near the pituitary gland
• Tends to be low grade
• Often accompanied by a cyst
• Originates in cells left over from early fetal development
• Occurs in children and men and women in their 50s and 60s

 
Symptoms

• Headaches
• Visual changes
• Weight gain
• Delayed development in children

 
Treatment

 
Surgery is the most common treatment. Radiation therapy may be used.