Beyond Calcification: Emerging Pathological, Molecular, and Clinical Significance of Pineal Gland Lesions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68041/medsc.v1i1/02Keywords:
Brain Neoplasms, Calcinosis, Cysts, Melatonin, Neuroimaging, Pineal Gland, PinealomaAbstract
The pineal gland is a small neuroendocrine gland located in the middle of the epithalamus and was long thought to be a vestigial structure whose main clinical significance was in the diagnosis of calcification on imaging. The more streamlined perspective is quickly becoming unsustainable. In modern imaging, molecular pathology, and endocrine studies, the pineal region is now known to be the site of complex interrelationships between calcification, cyst formation, and the development of neoplasms, with melatonin physiology, circadian rhythms, and oncogenic signaling. The aim of this communication is to present the current knowledge regarding the pathological and molecular diversity of pineal lesions, and to discuss the longstanding controversy of the functional consequences of pineal calcification and the potential clinical consequences of imaging-pathological discordance. It is believed that this pineal gland requires resurgence of investigation, not simply because of the occasional radiographical finding, but for its possible role as a target for alterations in neurological and systemic disease.
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