Pineal gland tumor or cyst is a sac-like structure that develops in the pineal gland, located in the center of the brain. Generally, these cysts do not cause health problems like that, but if they grow large in size, there may be some symptoms are visible, the remedial measures may be taken.
Philosophers and spiritual call the pineal gland tumor is the 'third eye', because they believe that this is where the soul of the body is located. It helps us with the inner vision, act as a mediator between the spiritual and the physical world. On the other hand, modern science has shown that this gland and regulate the quality of one's sleep patterns.
The exact cause that lead to the development of the pineal gland cysts are not known, other than they are benign and harmless. They often do not produce symptoms, ie they do not show symptoms. However, sometimes, the pineal cysts also be great, in that it can produce some symptoms. Pineal cyst is one of four types of lesions of the pineal, the other three are germ cell tumors, pineal parenchymal tumors and metastases.
The pineal gland tumor is also known as the 'pineal body', and is an endocrine gland located in the center of the brain, just between the two hemispheres of her. The most important function of this gland is to produce melatonin, the hormone that is mainly set up and maintain sleep patterns and how well one sleeps. It is a photosensitive gland, since its function is influenced by light. Therefore, the secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland is also governed by the darkness and the light, where darkness and light inhibits secretion stimulated.
Sometimes, cyst enlargement, which is quite rare, can cause a condition known as hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus refers to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain. This condition is caused by obstruction of the drainage of the brain by the pineal cysts grow. Because of this, pressure builds up in the brain, and also, a lot of time, causing the symptoms mentioned above, along with ataxia and coma in severe cases.
As these cysts are often asymptomatic, they are mainly found in CT and MRI scans, which is usually done to diagnose some unrelated condition or disorder. They are more often found at autopsy performed after the individual's death. However, larger cysts that produce symptoms may require neurological evaluation, and can be detected with the help of brain scans. Typically, the pineal cysts can be easily distinguished by their characteristic differences in the appearance of tumors that develop in the pineal region.
Unless the cysts grow and large enough to cause hydrocephalus by blocking the cerebral aqueduct, they do not require any treatment. This is because these cysts are harmless and benign or non-cancerous. However, in rare cases, surgical removal may be needed if they are large in size, and produce severe symptoms that can affect the health and welfare of individuals. However, like other brain surgery, this process also involves some risk. For conditions that can be controlled, medications prescribed to relieve the symptoms.
Only in rare cases do the pineal gland cysts cause serious health problems. There is no particular reason behind the formation of these cysts have been found until now. But it is important to regularly monitor the size of these cysts after they have been detected. This will help determine if the cysts grow in size and pose a health hazard for the individual.