Pituitary tumours Flashcards
What is a pituitary adenoma?
A pituitary adenoma is a benign tumour of the pituitary gland.
How common are pituitary adenomas?
They are common, occurring in about 10% of all people.
What percentage of adult brain tumours are pituitary adenomas?
They account for around 10% of adult brain tumours.
How can pituitary adenomas be classified?
They can be classified according to size and hormonal status.
What is the size classification for pituitary adenomas?
A microadenoma is <1cm and a macroadenoma is ≥1cm.
What are the two types of hormonal status in pituitary adenomas?
Secretory/functioning adenomas produce excess hormones, while non-secretory/functioning adenomas do not.
What is the most common type of pituitary adenoma?
Prolactinomas are the most common type, producing an excess of prolactin.
What are the next most common types of pituitary adenomas after prolactinomas?
Non-secreting adenomas, GH-secreting adenomas, and ACTH-secreting adenomas.
How do pituitary adenomas typically cause symptoms?
They can cause symptoms through excess hormones, depletion of hormones, or compression effects.
What is a pituitary incidentaloma?
A pituitary incidentaloma is a microadenoma found incidentally on neuroimaging.
What investigations are required for pituitary adenomas?
A pituitary blood profile, formal visual field testing, and MRI brain with contrast.
What are some differential diagnoses for pituitary adenomas?
Pituitary hyperplasia, craniopharyngioma, meningioma, brain metastases, lymphoma, hypophysitis, and vascular malformation.
What medical therapy is used for prolactinomas?
Prolactinomas are generally treated first-line with dopamine agonists like cabergoline or bromocriptine.
What treatments are used for GH-secreting adenomas?
Somatostatin analogues and GH receptor antagonists are used.
What is the primary treatment for most pituitary adenomas?
Transsphenoidal surgery is the primary treatment.
