Pituitary tumour (non-functioning)

Question 1

What is a non functioning pituitary tumour?

Answer 1

Pituitary adenomas which do NOT cause a characteristic hormone hypersecretion syndrome

Question 2

Describe the aetiology of non functioning pituitary tumours

Answer 2

UNKNOWN

Monoclonal origin

Question 3

What are non functioning pituitary tumours associated with?

Answer 3

Hypermethylation of p16 (TSG) leading to unregulated cell growth
MEN-1 + Carney complex

Question 4

Describe the epidemiology of non functioning pituitary tumours

Answer 4

3rd most common intra-cranial neoplasm

Question 5

Describe the nature of symptoms of non functioning pituitary tumours. Why is this?

Answer 5

Very slow progression of Sx

No hormonal derangement

Question 6

What symptoms are caused by pressure on surrounding structures in LARGE non functioning pituitary tumours?

Answer 6

“Mass effect”
Headaches
Bitemporal hemianopia (optic chiasm)
Pituitary gland: pan hypopituitarism (Sx depend on hormone affected)

Question 7

What investigations are performed for non functioning pituitary tumours?

Answer 7

MRI + CT
Bloods: check hormone levels
Visual Fields Testing