QST Classification for Craniopharyngioma and Histopathological Aspect

Abstract

The pathological diagnosis of craniopharyngioma is not complicated; however, it is very important to understand the relationship between tumors and the adjacent structures and to clarify the true origin and growth pattern of craniopharyngioma from the histological level. Therefore, the main contents of this chapter is to show the pathological manifestations of craniopharyngioma itself, as well as the relationship between tumor and pituitary stalk, the third ventricle floor, and the pituitary gland. The purpose of this chapter is not only to prove that the tumor was epi-pia mater originated. At the site of tumor origin, the pia mater between tumor and third ventricle floor and pituitary stalk could be disappeared, and the tumor could directly contact with third ventricle floor and pituitary stalk. All of this is the basis of QST classification and is important for protection of the surrounding structure.