Pineal Region Tumors

Book excerpt: The pineal region is an anatomic location where various intracranial tumors, in particular germ cell tumors and pineal parenchymal tumors, occur. Interestingly, pineal germ cell tumors are detected more frequently in Asian countries, including Japan, while pineal parenchymal tumors are less frequent in Asia than in the United States and Europe. This publication takes advantage of the knowledge and experience of Japanese experts in pineal tumors, with emphasis on epidemiology and pathological diagnosis. A variety of treatment modalities including radiotherapy, radiosurgery, surgical therapy and chemotherapy are also discussed. This valuable book will enhance the knowledge on pineal tumor treatment of not only neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists but also neurologists, neuro-oncologists, pediatricians and neuropathologists interested in pineal region tumors.