Prolactinoma Flashcards
what are prolactinomas?
type of pituitary adenoma, a benign tumour of the pituitary gland
what is the definition of a pituitary microadenoma?
size <1cm
what is the definition of a pituitary macroadenoma?
size >1cm
what are secretory/functioning pituitary adenomas?
produce an excess of a particular hormone
what is a non-secretory/functioning pituitary adenoma?
does not produce hormones to excess
what hormone does prolactinomas produce?
prolactin
what are the symptoms of prolactinoma in women?
- amenorrhea
- infertility
- galactorrhoea
- osteoporosis
what are the symptoms of prolactinoma in men?
- impotence
- loss of libido
- galactorrhoea
what symptoms are associated with macroadenomas?
- headache
- visual disturbances - bitemporal hemianopia
- symptoms and signs of hypopituitarism
how are prolactinomas diagnosed?
MRI
how is the medical management of prolactinomas?
dopamine agonists (e.g. cabergoline, bromocriptine)
inhibit the release of prolactin from the pituitary gland
what surgery can be performed to remove prolactinomas?
trans-sphenoidal approach
