Definition

Pineal tumours arise in or around the pineal gland and include pineocytomas, pineoblastomas, and germ cell tumours.

Prevalence

Rare, accounting for less than 1% of brain tumours.

Symptoms

• Headaches

• Hydrocephalus symptoms (nausea, imbalance)

• Double vision or difficulty moving the eyes upward (Parinaud’s syndrome)

• Sleep disturbances

Diagnosis

• MRI with contrast

• Tumour marker testing (AFP, β-HCG) for germ cell tumours

• CSF sampling in select cases

• Biopsy or surgical removal when feasible
  

Treatment Options

• Microsurgery for accessible lesions

• Radiotherapy and chemotherapy for malignant types

• Endoscopic treatment of associated hydrocephalus