What is a pineal tumor?
A person with a pineal tumor has a benign growth of cells that have formed a mass in the pineal gland, which is located in the brain. Benign tumors are not cancerous because they do not spread to other areas of the body. Pineal tumors represent less than 1 percent of all brain tumors. The cause of pineal tumors is unknown.

What are the symptoms of a pineal tumor?
Symptoms of a pineal tumor depend upon the tumor's location in the brain. Pineal tumors can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which normally circulates around the brain. Blocking the flow causes symptoms of hydrocephalus. The most common symptoms of a pineal tumor include headache, nausea, vomiting, and vision changes.

How does the doctor treat a pineal tumor?
Treatment for a pineal tumor may include some combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.