Who treats children with craniopharyngioma?

A pediatric oncologist, a doctor who specializes in treating children with cancer, oversees treatment for childhood craniopharyngioma. The pediatric oncologist works with other health care providers who are experts in treating children with brain tumors and who specialize in certain areas of medicine. Other specialists may include:

There are different types of treatment for children and adolescents with craniopharyngioma. Although craniopharyngioma is not cancer, treatment is often similar to cancer treatment and may include surgery, radiation therapy, and other approaches. You and your child's care team will work together to decide treatment. Many factors will be considered, such as your child's age and overall health, where the tumor is located and whether it has spread into nearby tissue, and the possible side effects and late effects of treatment.

Your child's treatment plan will include information about the tumor, the goals of treatment, treatment options, and the possible side effects. It will be helpful to talk with your child's care team before treatment begins about what to expect. For help every step of the way, visit our booklet, Children with Cancer: A Guide for Parents.

Types of treatment your child might have include: