Pituitary tumour ( non- functioning)

Question 1

Define non-functioning pituitary tumours?

Answer 1

pituitaty adenoma which do not cause characteristic horone hypersecretion syndrome

Question 2

outline the aetiology/ risk factors of non-functioning pituitary tumour?

Answer 2

unknown

monoclonal origin

associated with hypermethylation of p16-> TS gene-> unregulated cell growth

Associated with MEN-1 and Carney complex

Nelson’s syndrome is the enlargement of a pituitary adenoma which occurs after bilateral adrenalectomy.

Question 3

What is nelson’s syndrome?

Answer 3

enlargement of pituitary adenoma-> Occurs after bilateral adrenolectomy

Question 4

summarise the epidemiology of non-functioning pituitary tumours?

Answer 4

3rd most common intra-cranial neoplasm

Question 5

what are the presenting symptoms and signs of a non- functioning pituitary tumours?

Answer 5

Very slow progression of symptoms as there is no hormonal deragement

Headaches

Pressure on surrounding structures:

• Optic chiasm – bitemporal hemianopia
• Normal pituitary gland – pan hypopituitarism (symptoms depend on the hormone affected)

Question 6

what are the appropriate investigations for a non- functioning pituitary tumour?

Answer 6

MRI and CT

Bloods – check hormone levels

Visual Fields Testing