How common are non-metastatic cancers of the hypothalamus in adults?

Relatively common: Pituitary and hypothalamus tumors are most commonly benign and emerge as solitary growths in this area. These are not connected to cancers elsewhere. They can grow and compress gland tissue and cause reductions in hormone production by crowding out nearby healthy gland tissue. But, they also might be able to produce excess hormone and create a syndrome of excess hormone production.

Not common: Primary malignant cancers arising from the hypothalamus are very uncommon. Benign hypothalamic tumors or secondary neoplastic involvement is more likely.