Craniopharyngioma epidemiology and demographics

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Marjan Khan M.B.B.S.[2]

The demographic patterns of craniopharyngioma are not well described because the tumor is rare. In addition, most cancer registries collect data only on malignant conditions and, therefore, they are not useful in the study of craniopharyngioma which is considered to be a borderline histological malignancy. Incidence rates are similar in males and females and between caucasians and African Americans. Tumors are more common among children of age 5 to 15 years and older adults of greater than 65 years, while the lowest rates occur among those aged 15 to 34 years. Survival is highest for patients diagnosed at a younger age.

• Craniopharyngiomas constitute approximately 3% of all intracranial neoplasms.^[1]
• In children, craniopharyngiomas account for 5% of all tumours and 50% of all sellar and parasellar tumours.^[1]
• They are the most common pediatric brain tumor of nonglial origin, yet nearly half of all cases of craniopharyngiomas occur in adults.^[1]
• They appear to be more common, with higher incidence rates reported in Japan and some parts of Africa.
• They are approximately equally common in males and females.^[1]

• The overall incidence of craniopharyngioma is approximately 0.5 to 2 per 100,000 per year.^[1]
• The age distribution is bimodal with a peak in childhood and a second peak among middle-aged and older adults.^[1]
• No definite genetic relationship has been found and few familial cases reported. ^[1]

• A bimodal distribution by age was noted with peak incidence rates in children (aged 5-14 years; more common) and among older adults.^[2]

• There appears to be a similar incidence in both males and females.^[3]

• No racial predilection is seen in craniopharyngioma cases.
• Few studies show that there is a higher incidence rates reported in Japan and some parts of Africa. ^[1]

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