Experiences with radioactive gold in the treatment of craniopharyngioma

Abstract

A report on the use of radioactive gold in an injectable colloidal form in 5 cases of craniopharyngioma is presented. Evidence showed that the use of 50-100 millicuries was excessive. Not only was the cyst wall destroyed but also brain tissue. The recommended dosage is that of 10-15 millicuries. Hypothalamic disturbances are apparently the cause of mental changes in these cases. Before local instillation of radioactive gold is undertaken external radiotherapy should be considered. A procedure combining both techniques has not been tested as yet.