The pineal gland is located at the top of the diencephalon and primarily secretes melatonin, which antagonizes the melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) from the pituitary gland, causing lightening of skin pigmentation in amphibians. The pineal gland acts as a neuroendocrine transducer, functioning as a "biological clock" and may inhibit gonadal activity. Pineal tumors are classified into various types based on cytomorphology. Tumors that arise away from the pineal gland near the fistula disease area are termed ectopic pinealomas.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

It commonly occurs in children, with one-third of patients experiencing precocious puberty; tumor compression symptoms may include headache and vomiting; if the hypothalamus is involved, diabetes insipidus or other neuropsychiatric symptoms of the hypothalamus may occur.

bubble_chart Auxiliary Examination

1. Physical examination findings: may include decreased vision, optic disc edema, and abnormal gait.
2. Head CT scan and MRI can detect the tumor and provide localization diagnosis.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Surgical resection or radiation therapy.