Craniopharyngioma radiotherapy: endocrine and cognitive effects.

Potential existing and treatment associated deficits in neurological, endocrine and cognitive function influence treatment decisions and the use of radiation therapy in children with craniopharyngioma. Neurological deficits are uncommon after radiation therapy, endocrine deficiencies are typically present prior to treatment, and cognitive effects depend on a wide range of clinical and treatment-related factors in addition to radiation dosimetry. Early and accurate evaluation of these functions should be considered for all patients to provide parents and caregivers with the information necessary to plan intervention and mitigate the consequences of tumor and treatment.