Prolactinoma

Question 1

what is a ‘prolactinoma’?

Answer 1

a secretory pituitory adenoma of the lactotrophs in the anterior pituitary which secretes excess prolactin hormone

Question 2

which is the most common type of pituitary adenoma?

Answer 2

prolactinoma

Question 3

how does a prolactinoma present in women?

Answer 3

1. galactorrhea

2. secondary amenorrhea in premenopausal women

Question 4

how does a prolactinoma present in men?

Answer 4

1. reduced libido

2. erectile dysfunction

Question 5

How is a prolactinoma diagnosed?

Answer 5

1. Basal prolactin levels - will be high

2. Cranila contrast MRI

Question 6

What is the choice of imaging and what does it show?

Answer 6

1. cranial contrast MRI

2. intrasellar mass

Question 7

First line tx for prolactinomas

Answer 7

1. first line : - dopamine agonists
   - bromocriptine
   - causes prolactinoma to shrink

Question 8

Second line tx for prolactinoma

Answer 8

1. Transsphenoidal hyophysectomy - resection

2, adjuvant radiotherapy