CHAPTER 30 



SYMPTOMATOLOGY OF PINEAL TUMOURS 



Enlargements of the pineal gland usually present clinically a well- 

 defined syndrome. Owing to the anatomical position, enlargements of 

 the gland cause pressure on structures which give rise to clear-cut clinical 

 symptoms and hence are quite early recognizable. 



The symptoms can best be considered under three headings : (1) Focal 



Pineal 

 gland 



Fig. 286. — Anatomical Relationships of the Pineal Gland. 



— those due to the lesion itself. (2) Local — the changes brought about 

 within the central nervous system. (3) General — the somatic changes 

 which sometimes accompany such enlargements. 



1 . Focal Signs. — The focal signs which may be produced by tumours 

 are due in the main to the anatomical position of the gland (see Fig. 286). 

 It is because of its relationship to the superior corpora quadrigemina 

 that the eye signs produced are so characteristic. 



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