Alternative Names
Hypothalamic glioma
Definition of Hypothalamic tumor
A hypothalamic tumor is an abnormal growth in the hypothalamus gland, which is located in the brain.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The exact cause of hypothalamic tumors is not known. It is likely that they result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Symptoms
These tumors can cause a range of symptoms:
Signs and tests
Your health care provider may identify an abnormal development during a regular checkup. He or she will perform a neurological exam, including testing of visual function. Blood tests for hormone imbalances may also be performed.
Treatment
The treatment depends on the aggressiveness of the tumor and whether it is a glioma or another type of cancer. Treatment options involve combinations of surgery, , and .
Expectations (prognosis)
Prognosis depends on several factors:
Review
David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. – 3/21/2010
