Dabrafenib is a medication that belongs to a group called BRAF inhibitors. It works by blocking a specific protein that can cause tumor growth. This medication is used to treat certain types of tumors by targeting cells that have a specific genetic change (mutation).

Trametinib is a medication that works together with dabrafenib. It belongs to a group called MEK inhibitors. This medication helps block different proteins that are involved in cancer cell growth and survival. When used together with dabrafenib, it can be more effective in treating certain types of tumors.

These medications are used together in this trial to treat papillary craniopharyngioma, which is a type of brain tumor, before and after surgery. The treatment aims to shrink the tumor and prevent it from growing back after surgical removal.

Papillary Craniopharyngioma – A slow-growing brain tumor that develops from remnants of embryonic tissue near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. This benign tumor typically forms in the sellar and suprasellar regions of the brain, containing both solid components and fluid-filled cysts. Papillary craniopharyngioma most commonly affects adults, showing distinct features under microscopic examination with finger-like projections of tissue. The tumor can gradually expand and press on nearby brain structures, including the optic nerves and pituitary gland. As it grows, it may affect various functions controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.