A skull base tumour is an abnormal growth that occurs at the bottom of the skull, near the brain and the top of the spinal column. These tumours can develop from various structures in the skull base, including the bones, nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Skull base tumours can be benign or malignant, and can affect critical functions such as vision, hearing, and balance, depending on their location and size. Examples of such tumours include pituitary tumour, meningioma and acoustic neuroma (also known as vestibular schwannoma).

Some potential symptoms one may experience include:
Persistent headaches
Changes in vision or hearing
Facial numbness
Difficulty swallowing
Weakness or paralysis of the face or limbs

Treatment options for skull base tumours depend on various factors, including the type, location, size, and grade of the tumour, as well as the overall health of the individual.

Surgical intervention is often recommended for accessible skull base tumours. Various surgical techniques, such as open surgery, minimally invasive endoscopic surgery, or image-guided surgery, may be employed to remove the tumour while preserving surrounding critical structures.

Besides surgical interventions, other treatment options include radiation therapy (like gamma knife radiosurgery), chemotherapy and targeted therapy.

> Radiation therapy: Includes external beam radiation or stereotactic radiosurgery, may be used to target and destroy tumour cells. It is often employed as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery to manage residual tumour or as a palliative measure to alleviate symptoms.
> Chemotherapy: Involves the use of specific drugs to kill cancer cells, may be recommended for certain types of malignant skull base tumours. It can be administered orally or intravenously, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with other therapies.
> Targeted therapy: Utilises medications that specifically target the molecular changes in cancer cells, thereby inhibiting their growth and spread. This treatment option is often tailored to the specific characteristics of the tumour and may be used in combination with other modalities.

A multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, and oncologists is often necessary to provide comprehensive care and improve the outcomes for individuals with skull base tumours.