Search

Background: Large and giant pituitary adenomas (defined as tumors of maximal diameter ≥ 3–3.9 cm and ≥ 4 cm, respectively) present considerable surgical challenges regarding the extent of resection and perioperative morbidity. Endoscopic endonasal resection is considered the most effective treatment for pituitary adenomas. It allows for better visualization, maneuverability, and access to distant and lateral tumor compartments, ultimately enhancing the extent of resection. This article evaluates our initial experience with endoscopic endonasal resection of large and giant pituitary adenomas. The clinical outcomes, perioperative complications, and extent of tumor resection would be specifically addressed. Patients and methods: The primary goal of surgery was to decompress the optic pathways, and the secondary goals were to achieve maximal safe resection and hormonal control in hormone-secreting adenomas. The degree of tumor resection was classified as gross-total resection (100%), near-total resection (90–100%), subtotal resection (70–90%), and partial resection (< 70%). Results: 42 patients were included in this study. A good visual outcome achieved with 80% improvement in visual symptoms. Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved in 19 patients (45.2%), near-total resection (NTR) was achieved in 12 patients (28.6%), subtotal resection (STR) in 6 patients (14.3%), and partial resection in the remaining 5 patients (11.9%). Subgroup analysis revealed that GTR, NTR rates were higher in large, compared to giant tumors. GTR, NTR rates of large adenomas were 59.3%, and 29.6%, compared to 20%, and 26.7% in giant adenomas respectively (p-value: 0.01428). Surgical complications were observed in 19 patients (45.2%) with CSF leakage being the most common complication (11 patients, 26.2%). Post-operative diabetes insipidus was observed in 5 patients (11.9%), major vascular injury in one case (2.4%), transient post-op 6th nerve palsy observed in 3 patients (7.1%), while two patients (4.8%) presented with post-operative paranasal sinuses infection. Conclusions: Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal resection of large and giant pituitary adenomas is a safe and efficient procedure. Large adenomas (3–3.9 cm) have excellent resection rates and lower complications than giant adenomas (≥ 4 cm), which may require extending our approach to achieve more tumor resection rates in the future. However, only adequate resection of these giant adenomas can be enough to achieve the main surgical goals of visual improvement, hormonal control, and decompression of surrounding structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The coexistence of two histologically distinct neoplasms in the same area without histological admixture or an intermediate cell population zone represents a rare tumor type called collision tumor. Collision tumor of pituitary adenoma and meningioma has been reported years later following irradiation to pituitary adenoma. However, collision tumor of pituitary adenoma and meningioma in absence of irradiation therapy is extremely uncommon. Case Description We report an unusual case of collision tumor involving diaphragma sella meningioma and pituitary adenoma in a 50-year-old lady without prior radiation therapy. She presented with visual blurring and impaired field of vision. Her preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was suggestive of pituitary adenoma. Total excision of the lesion was performed through endoscopic transsphenoidal route. Histological diagnosis was consistent with collision tumor of pituitary adenoma and meningioma. Conclusion Collision tumor comprising of nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma and meningioma is extremely rare. Preoperative MRI may not always be able to distinguish these histologically distinct neoplasms. Hence, histopathological examination is necessary to establish the diagnosis. Endoscopic transsphenoidal approach may suffice in excision of these collision tumors. Close follow-up is necessary to detect tumor recurrence. Though the association of these tumors can be coincidental, casual relationship between the occurrence of collision tumors cannot be totally excluded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To identify differences in the presentation and surgical outcomes between very large (30–39 mm) and giant (≥ 40 mm) (LARGE group) pituitary adenomas (PAs) compared to the smaller group (< 30 mm) (non-LARGE group). Methods: Eighty patients with very large (n = 44) or giant (n = 36) PAs and 226 patients in the non-LARGE group who underwent tumor resection by pituitary surgery between 2008 and 2023 were studied. Hormonal, radiological, ophthalmological, and pathological data, and surgical outcomes were evaluated. Results: Preoperatively, patients of the LARGE group presented more frequently with visual impairment (82.5% vs. 22.1%, P < 0.001) and with pituitary apoplexy (15.0% vs. 2.7%, P < 0.001) than the non-LARGE group. Moreover, the LARGE group were more commonly associated with preoperative panhypopituitarism (28.8% vs. 6.2%, P < 0.001). This group presented cavernous sinus invasion more frequently (71.3% vs. 23.9%, P < 0.001). The non-LARGE group achieved surgical cure more often than the LARGE group (79.7% vs. 50.0%, P < 0.001), and the rate of major complications was higher in the latest (8.8% vs. 1.3%, P < 0.004). Conclusions: PAs ≥ 30 mm are most frequently accompanied by hormonal dysfunction, cavernous sinus invasion, and visual impairment. All this implies lower resection rates and higher postoperative complications than the smaller adenomas, posing a real surgical challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pituitary adenomas are benign brain tumors that impose a heavy burden on patients worldwide. The local burden of disease is yet to be established due to scarcity of data. In line with this, this study aims to present the challenges and gaps in the treatment of pituitary adenomas in the Philippines. Methods: A scoping review of available relevant literature on epidemiology, clinical experience with treatment, health financing, and healthcare delivery system based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines extension for Scoping Reviews was conducted. Results: The scarcity of updated local clinical data, inequity of distribution of resources, inadequate government support, and lack of affordable diagnostic testing, medications, and neurosurgical procedures are the factors that hinder provision of adequate care of pituitary adenomas in the Philippines. Conclusion: There are notable treatment gaps in the management of pituitary adenomas in the Philippines, which may be addressed by strengthening universal healthcare. Strategies to address these gaps were proposed, including improving public-private insurance coverage, increasing manpower, enhancing accessibility to resources, and spreading more awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cushing's disease (CD) is an uncommon yet serious disorder, linked to increased morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis of these patients are complex, and emphasis should be placed on early detection for better management of these patients. The objective of this case report is to evaluate the diagnostic elements in the identification of a subcentimeter adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)-dependent pituitary adenoma. We report a case of a 26-year-old man who presented with extensive superficial fungal infection of the skin, unintentional weight gain, hypertension, dyslipidaemia as well as cushingoid appearance suspicious of hypercortisolism. Raised midnight plasma cortisol and 24-hour urinary cortisol levels warranted further investigation. Overnight and 48-hour low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) were non-suppressed. Subsequent bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS) was not only efficient in differentiating pituitary from ectopic Cushing's syndrome (CS) but was shown to be superior to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in lateralisation of the pituitary adenoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FSRT) is a common modality used to treat pituitary adenomas with good control rates. It is not known whether FSRT should be performed early or delayed until progression occurs. We compared FSRT in treating nonfunctional pituitary adenomas (NFPA) as an adjuvant (ADJ) or on-progression (PRG) therapy. A retrospective review of patients who underwent FSRT for an NFPA between January 2004 and December 2022 at a single institution was performed. We compared endocrinologic, ophthalmologic, and radiographic outcomes in FSRT delivered as ADJ and PRG treatment. Seventy-five patients were analyzed, with a median follow-up of 53 months. FSRT was administered to 35 and 40 patients as ADJ and PRG, with a median time to treatment of 5.5 and 40 months, respectively. The tumor control rate was 94.3% for ADJ and 95.0% for PRG. Treatment resulted in 4 (11.4%) versus 7 (17.5%) new endocrinopathies and 2 (5.7%) versus 1 (2.5%) new visual deficits for ADJ versus PRG. A survival analysis of time to new endocrinopathy showed no difference between the 2 cohorts. The median time from surgery to new endocrinopathy was significantly different between ADJ and PRG, at 15.5 and 102.0 months, respectively. FSRT is effective in treating NFPA for residual and progressive tumors, with excellent tumor control rates and a low risk of developing new endocrinopathies and visual deficits. Delaying treatment delayed the development of new endocrinopathies, suggesting that observation with FSRT on tumor progression may delay the onset of hypopituitarism and maintain similar effectiveness in tumor control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of a 75-year-old patient with hypopituitarism, bitemporal visual field deficits and a parasellar mass on pituitary MRI. During surgery, suspicion was raised that a non-functioning pituitary adenoma was accompanied by an abutting diaphragm sellae meningioma, which was confirmed at pathological examination. In retrospect, the initial MRI suggested two separate tumours on the basis of differing densities but this distinction was not seen on the last preoperative MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only two aneurysm formations in the internal carotid artery after gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for pituitary adenomas are reported so far. Here, out of the 482 patients who underwent GKRS for pituitary adenomas at our institute, at least five developed aneurysms within the area of high single-dose irradiation. Three patients presented with epistaxis due to aneurysmal rupture and one presented with abducens paralysis due to nerve compression, while one was asymptomatic. The interval between irradiation and aneurysmal detection ranged from 14 to 21 years. Aneurysm formation in those conditions may be higher than previously thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Pituitary adenomas are benign tumors, usually found in men in their 3rd and 5th decades of life, representing 10-15% of all intracranial tumors. The clinical manifestations include important endocrinological disturbances and visual impairment. Objective. This study aimed to determine the most suitable neurosurgical approach regarding the dimensions, extensions and invasiveness of tumor extensions. Design. This was a systematic review of the literature from 2002-2022, focused on clinical outcome, especially endocrinological state according to the surgical approach. Subjects and Methods. We performed an advanced search on Web of Science and PubMed databases on October 10th, 2022. The literature showed 300 studies in the last 20 years, and after we applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria’s, 19 studies were fully read and analyzed. Results. Postoperative complications were reviewed in each surgical approach group, including visual impairment, new endocrinological disturbances, diabetes insipidus and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Analyze of the endocrinological findings did not determined differences in transcranial groups from transsphenoidal groups. Overall complications were identified in the transcranial cohorts, while cerebrospinal fluid leakage still represent the main problem in transsphenoidal groups. The majority of studies found included extended endoscopic transsphenoidal approach, which shows results of great potential. Conclusions. For the surgical treatment of pituitary adenoma, transsphenoidal procedure with or without extended approaches is preferred, but they’re cases when a craniotomy is mandatory for a feasible gross tumor resection. Combined “above and below” simultaneous procedure or a two-staged intervention is recommended for giant pituitary adenoma, to maximize tumor resection and lower the risk of cerebrospinal fluid leakage [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary adenomas are benign brain tumors that comprise  10%–20% of all central nervous system neoplasms. In recent years, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has emerged as a highly effective treatment option in the management of functioning and nonfunctioning adenomas. It is associated with tumor control rates frequently ranging from 80% to 90% in published reports. While permanent morbidity is uncommon, potential side effects include endocrine dysfunction, visual field deficits, and cranial nerve neuropathies. In patients where single fraction SRS would pose an unacceptable risk (e.g. large lesion size or close proximity to the optic apparatus), hypofractionated SRS delivered in 1–5 fractions is a potential treatment option; however, available data are limited. A comprehensive literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted to identify articles reporting on the use of SRS in functioning and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pituitary apoplexy is acute infarction with or without hemorrhage of the pituitary gland. It is a rare but potentially life-threatening emergency that most commonly occurs in the setting of pituitary adenoma. The mechanisms underlying pituitary apoplexy are not well understood, but are proposed to include factors of both hemodynamic supply and adenoma demand. In the case of patients with known pituitary macroadenomas undergoing major surgery for other indications, there is a theoretically increased risk of apoplexy in the setting of "surgical stress." However, risk stratification of patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas prior to major surgery is challenging because the precipitating factors for pituitary apoplexy are not completely understood. Here we present a case in which intraoperative hypovolemia is a possible mechanistic precipitating factor for pituitary apoplexy. Case presentation: A 76-year-old patient with a known hypofunctioning pituitary macroadenoma underwent nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma, during which there was significant intraoperative blood loss. He became symptomatic with ophthalmoplegia on the second postoperative day, and was diagnosed with pituitary apoplexy. He was managed conservatively with cortisol replacement therapy, and underwent therapeutic anticoagulation 2 months after pituitary apoplexy for deep vein thrombosis. His ophthalmoplegia slowly resolved over months of follow-up. Pituitary apoplexy did not recur with therapeutic anticoagulation. Conclusions: When considering the risk of surgery in patients with a known pituitary macroadenoma, an operation with possible high-volume intraoperative blood loss may have increased risk of pituitary apoplexy because intraoperative hypovolemia may precipitate ischemia, infarction, and subsequent hemorrhage. This may be particularly relevant in the cases of elective surgery. Additionally, we found that we were able to therapeutically anticoagulate a patient 2 months after pituitary apoplexy for the management of deep vein thrombosis without recurrence of pituitary apoplexy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the association of the thickness of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) with (i) visual symptoms and (ii) suprasellar extension defined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with pituitary macroadenoma. Materials and Methods: RNFL thickness of 50 consecutive patients operated for pituitary macroadenoma between July 2019 and April 2021 were compared with standard visual examination findings and MRI measurements such as optic chiasm height, distance between the optic chiasm and adenoma, suprasellar extension, and chiasmal lift. Results: The study group included 100 eyes of 50 patients operated for pituitary adenomas with suprasellar extension. RNFL thinning predominantly involved the nasal (84.26 ± 16.43 µm) and temporal quadrants (70.72 ± 14.80 µm) and correlated well with the visual field deficit (P < 0.001). Patients with moderate-to-severe deficit in visual acuity had a mean RNFL thickness <85 µm and patients with severe disc pallor had extremely thin RNFLs (<70 µm). Suprasellar extension defined as Wilsons Grade C, D, and E and Fujimotos Grades 3 and 4 were significantly associated with thin RNFLs <85 µm (P < 0.01). Chiasmal lift more than 1 cm and tumor chiasm distance of <0.5 mm were associated with thin RNFL (P < 0.002). Conclusion: RNFL thinning correlates directly with the severity of visual deficits in patients with pituitary adenoma. Wilsons Grade D and E, Fujimoto Grade 3 and 4, chiasmal lift more than 1 cm, and chiasm tumor distance <0.5 mm are strong predictors of RNFL thinning and poor vision. Pituitary macro adenoma and other suprasellar tumors need to be excluded in patients with preserved vision but having obvious RNFL thinning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li-Fraumeni syndrome is a cancer predisposition condition associated with various tumor types. We present the case of a 6-year-old boy who initially presented with a pituitary adenoma that was successfully treated with surgery. It ultimately recurred, requiring further surgical intervention followed by proton beam therapy. He later developed a medulloblastoma, and genetic testing revealed TP53 germline mutation. The patient underwent gross total resection of this medulloblastoma, followed by proton-based craniospinal irradiation and adjuvant chemotherapy. He remained disease-free 12 months after radiation and 7 months after chemotherapy. Current literature does not report pituitary adenoma as the initial central nervous manifestation in Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Early genetic testing should be considered in pediatric patients who present with such rare tumor types to help identify cancer predisposing conditions. Furthermore, as evidenced by our case, the management of multiple brain tumors in the pediatric population poses challenges. A multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgery, pediatric oncology, pathology, and radiation oncology remains crucial to optimize patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Pituicytomas are rare gliomas located in the neurohypophysis or infundibulum. A misdiagnosis of pituicytoma as pituitary adenoma is common because of similar location and occasional endocrine disturbances. (2) Case presentation: We present two cases with the comorbidity of pituicytoma and Cushing's disease (CD). Case 1 is that of a 51-year-old woman, the first reported case of the comorbidity of pituicytoma, CD, and central diabetes insipidus. She received a diagnosis of CD and central diabetes insipidus. After transsphenoidal surgery, histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of pituicytoma and adrenocorticotropin-secreting microadenoma; case 2 is that of a 29-year-old man who received a biochemical diagnosis of CD, but he received a histopathological confirmation of only pituicytoma. Both patients achieved a remission of hypercortisolism without relapse during the follow-up, but they developed hypopituitarism after surgery. We also reviewed all published 18 cases with the comorbidity of pituicytoma and any pituitary adenoma. (3) Conclusions: Pituicytoma might present pituitary hyperfunction disorders such as CD or acromegaly, with or without pathologically confirmed pituitary adenoma. CD is the most common hyperpituitarism occurring concurrently with pituicytomas. The remission rate and hypopituitarism after surgery seem similar or slightly lower in CD than in common pituitary adenomas, but the long-term prognosis is unexplored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary carcinoma (PC) is extremely rare, with its incidence only accounting for 0.1%-0.2% of pituitary tumor (PT). Existing histological features, including invasiveness, cellular pleomorphism, nuclear atypia, mitosis, necrosis, etc., can be observed in pituitary adenoma (PA), invasive PA (IPA) and PC. Invasion is not the basis for the diagnosis of PC. The diagnosis of PC is often determined after the metastases are found, hence early diagnosis is extraordinarily difficult. Owing to the conventional treatment for PC may not be effective, a large portion of patients survived less than one year after diagnosis. Therefore, it is of great significance to find an efficacious treatment for PC. We report a rare case of sparsely granulated somatotroph carcinoma with cerebrospinal fluid dissemination showing a favorable treatment response to temozolomide (TMZ) combined with wholebrain and spinal cord radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining normal gonadal axis hormone levels is important for improving the condition of male patients with pituitary adenoma. The current literature is somewhat divided on the results of evaluations of gonadal axis function in male patients with pituitary adenoma before and after treatment, and the increasing demand for better quality of life has provided motivation for this research to continue. In this article, we summarize the feasibility of using testosterone as an indicator for assessing male function and discuss the changes reported in various studies for gonadal hormones before and after treatment in male patients with pituitary adenoma. It is important for clinicians to understand the advantages of each treatment option and the effectiveness of assessing gonadal function. The rationale behind the theory that pituitary adenomas affect gonadal function and the criteria for evaluating pituitary–gonadal axis hormones should be explored in more depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystic lesions arising in the sellar region are not uncommon and encompass cystic pituitary adenomas, Rathke cleft cysts, craniopharyngiomas, and arachnoid cysts. Their clinical presentation may be similar, including headache, visual field defects, and anterior pituitary hormone deficits, which makes differential diagnosis challenging. On the other hand, imaging features may indicate certain pathologies. In this approach to the patient, we describe the case of a patient who presented with right temporal hemianopsia and a sellar/suprasellar cystic lesion, which was determined to be Rathke cleft cyst. We discuss the imaging characteristics that may suggest a particular diagnosis between Rathke cleft cyst, cystic pituitary adenoma, craniopharyngioma, and arachnoid cyst and propose a flowchart for aiding in the imaging differential diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Angiogenesis in pituitary tumors is not fully understood, and a better understanding could help inform new pharmacologic therapies, particularly for aggressive pituitary tumors. Materials and Methods: 219 human pituitary tumors and 12 normal pituitary glands were studied. Angiogenic genes were quantified by an angiogenesis qPCR array and a TaqMan probe-based absolute qPCR. Angiogenesis inhibition in pituitary tumors was evaluated in vitro with the endothelial tube formation assay and in vivo in RbΔ19 mice. Results: 71 angiogenic genes, 40 of which are known to be involved in sprouting angiogenesis, were differentially expressed in pituitary tumors. Expression of endothelial markers CD31, CD34, and ENG was significantly higher in pituitary tumors, by 5.6, 22.3, and 8.2-fold, respectively, compared to in normal pituitary tissue. There was no significant difference in levels of the lymphatic endothelial marker LYVE1 in pituitary tumors compared with normal pituitary gland tissue. Pituitary tumors also expressed significantly higher levels of angiogenesis growth factors, including VEGFA (4.2-fold), VEGFB (2.2), VEGFC (19.3), PGF (13.4), ANGPT2 (9.2), PDGFA (2.7), PDGFB (10.5) and TGFB1 (3.8) compared to normal pituitary tissue. Expression of VEGFC and PGF was highly correlated with the expression of endothelial markers in tumor samples, including CD31, CD34, and ENG (endoglin, a co-receptor for TGFβ). Furthermore, VEGFR inhibitors inhibited angiogenesis induced by human pituitary tumors and prolonged survival of RbΔ19 mice. Conclusion: Human pituitary tumors are characterized by more active angiogenesis than normal pituitary gland tissue in a manner consistent with sprouting angiogenesis. Angiogenesis in pituitary tumors is regulated mainly by PGF and VEGFC, not VEGFA and VEGFB. Angiogenesis inhibitors, such as the VEGFR2 inhibitor cabozantinib, may merit further investigation as therapies for aggressive human pituitary tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glomus tumor is a rare mesenchymal tumor with an organ-like structure. Sellar glomus tumors are extremely rare with only six reported cases in the literature. Because of the lack of special clinical manifestations and imaging features, the disorder may be easily misdiagnosed as other sellar tumors, especially pituitary adenomas. Here, the present study showed a case of a 69-year-old male with hypopituitarism who was preliminarily misdiagnosed as non-functional pituitary adenoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acromegaly is a systemic disease that requires multidisciplinary treatment to achieve the best clinical outcome. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach (TSA) as the primary treatment for somatotroph adenomas and further investigate patients who had suboptimal surgical results. This retrospective study included 83 patients with somatotroph adenomas treated by TSA at our institution from 1999 to 2010. Biochemical remission was defined as hGH <1 and <2.5 ng/ml. Factors associated with failure of TSA and strategy of secondary treatments for refractory and recurrent disease were analyzed. The mean age of patients was 41.1 ± 11.3 years, and the mean follow-up time was 54.2 ± 44.3 months. Approximately 44.5% of patients had residual tumors after TSA. Larger tumor size, higher GH level before the operation, and the existence of residual tumors were associated with TSA failure. Forty-one patients had an inadequate response to TSA or a recurrent lesion, and of these patients, 37 had residual tumor after TSA. Octreotide results in good outcomes in the treatment of DGSA patients, and SRS/EXRT generates good results in treating patients who receive second treatments when remission cannot be reached 6 months after TSA operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) improves the intraoperative detection of adenoma remnants in transsphenoidal surgery. iMRI might be redundant in endoscopic pituitary surgery in non-invasive tumors (Knosp 0–2) due to a superior visualization of anatomical structures in the periphery of the sella turcica compared to the microscopic technique. We identified the anatomical location of tumor remnants in iMRI and evaluated risk factors for secondary resection after iMRI and hereby selected patients with pituitary adenomas who may benefit from iMRI-assisted resection. Methods: We conducted a retrospective monocenter study of patients who underwent iMRI-assisted transsphenoidal surgical resection of pituitary adenomas at our department between 2012 and 2020. A total number of 190 consecutive iMRI-assisted transsphenoidal surgeries of pituitary adenomas graded as Knosp 0–2 were selected for analysis. Exclusion criteria were missing iMRI availability or pathologies other than adenomas. Of these 190 cases, 46.3% (N = 88) were treated with microscopic, 48.4% (N = 92) with endoscopic, and 5.3% (N = 10) with endoscopic-assisted technique. Volumetric measurement of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative tumor extension was performed. Demographic data, tumor characteristics, and MRI features were evaluated. Additionally, analysis of adenoma remnants identified by iMRI was performed. Results: An additional resection after iMRI was performed in 16.3% (N = 31). iMRI helped to reach gross total resection (GTR) in 83.9% (26/31) of these cases. False-positive resection was found in 1 patient (0.5%). Multivariable logistic analysis identified tumor volume (OR = 1.2, p = 0.007) recurrence (OR = 11.3, p = 0.002) and microscopic technique (OR = 2.8, p = 0.029) as independent risk factors for additional resection. Simultaneously, the endoscopic technique was significantly associated with GTR as evaluated by iMRI (OR = 2.8, p = 0.011) and postoperative MRI (OR = 5.8, p = 0.027). The detailed analysis of adenoma remnants on iMRI revealed the suprasellar location in a diaphragm fold, penetrating tumor above the diaphragm, or undetected invasion of cavernous sinus as well as in case of microscopic resection tumor location outside the line of sight as the main reasons for incomplete resections. Conclusion: Tumor volume, recurrence, and microscopic technique were identified as independent predictors for additional resection in patients with Knosp 0–2 adenomas. iMRI might increase the extent of resection (EOR) safely even after the endoscopic visualization of the sella with very low risk for false-positive findings. Remnants of tumors hidden within the diaphragmic folds, intrathecally, or behind the infiltrated wall of cavernous sinus not recognized on preoperative MRI were the most common findings in iMRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surgical treatment of recurrent adenomas can be challenging. Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) can improve the orientation and increase the safe extent of resection. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative retrospective analysis of recurrent adenomas treated by endoscopic or microscopic iMRI-assisted transsphenoidal surgery. A total number of 59 resections were selected. Detailed volumetric measurements, tumor characteristics, and MRI features of intraoperative remnants were evaluated. Intraoperative MRI increased the gross total resection (GTR) rate from 33.9% to 49.2%. Common locations of tumor remnants after iMRI were the clivus, the wall of the cavernous sinus or the perforation of the diaphragm. Increasing tumor volume and the microscopic technique were significantly associated with further resection after iMRI in the univariate analysis (p = 0.004, OR 1.6; p = 0.009, OR 4.4). Only the increasing tumor volume was an independent predictor for further resection (p = 0.007, OR 1.5). A significantly higher proportion of GTRs was achieved with the endoscopic technique (p = 0.001). Patients with a large recurrent pituitary adenoma who underwent microscopic transsphenoidal resection were the most likely to benefit from iMRI regarding the extent of resection. Occult invasions of the cavernous sinus and/or the clivus were the most common findings leading to further resection of tumor remnants after iMRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pituitary adenoma (PA) is a benign neuroendocrine tumor caused by adenohypophysial cells, and accounts for 10%-20% of all primary intracranial tumors. The surgical outcomes and prognosis of giant pituitary adenomas measuring ≥3 cm in diameter differ significantly due to the influence of multiple factors such as tumor morphology, invasion site, pathological characteristics and so on. The aim of this study was to explore the risk factors related to the recurrence or progression of giant and large PAs after transnasal sphenoidal surgery, and develop a predictive model for tumor prognosis. Methods: The clinical and follow-up data of 172 patients with large or giant PA who underwent sphenoidal surgery at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from January 2011 to December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The basic clinical information (age, gender, past medical history etc.), imaging features (tumor size, invasion characteristics, extent of resection etc.), and histopathological characteristics (pathological results, Ki-67, P53 etc.) were retrieved. SPSS 21.0 software was used for statistical analysis, and the R software was used to establish the predictive nomogram. Results: Seventy out of the 172 examined cases (40.7%) had tumor recurrence or progression. The overall progress free survival (PFS) rates of the patients at 1, 3 and 5 years after surgery were 90.70%, 79.65% and 59.30% respectively. Log-rank test indicated that BMI (P < 0.001), Knosp classification (P < 0.001), extent of resection (P < 0.001), Ki-67 (P < 0.001), sphenoidal sinus invasion (P = 0.001), Hardy classification (P = 0.003) and smoking history (P = 0.018) were significantly associated with post-surgery recurrence or progression. Cox regression analysis further indicated that smoking history, BMI ≥25 kg/m2, Knosp classification grade 4, partial resection and ≥3% Ki-67 positive rate were independent risk factors of tumor recurrence or progression (P < 0.05). In addition, the nomogram and ROC curve based on the above results indicated significant clinical value. Conclusion: The postoperative recurrence or progression of large and giant PAs is related to multiple factors and a prognostic nomogram based on BMI (≥25 kg/m2), Knosp classification (grade 4), extent of resection (partial resection) and Ki-67 (≥3%) can predict the recurrence or progression of large and giant PAs after transnasal sphenoidal surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophages are one of the most common infiltrating immune cells and an essential component of tumor microenvironment. Macrophages and the soluble cytokines and chemokines produced play an important role in tumorigenesis, progression, invasion and metastasis in solid tumors. Despite the multiple studies in other solid tumors, there is little known about macrophages in pituitary adenomas. Recently, studies about pituitary adenoma-infiltrated macrophages have been emerging, including the immunohistochemical and immunophenotypic analysis of the pituitary adenomas and further studies into the mechanism of the crosstalk between macrophages and tumor cells in vivo and in vitro. These studies have offered us new insights into the polarization of macrophages and its role in tumorigenesis, progression and invasion of pituitary adenomas. This review describes the advances in the field of pituitary adenoma-infiltrated macrophages and the prospect of targeting macrophages as cancer therapy in pituitary adenoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage represents a challenge even for experienced pituitary surgeons. We aimed to quantitatively synthesize data from studies regarding the risk factors for postoperative CSF leakage after transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for pituitary adenoma (PA).Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, and VIP database were searched for case-control and cohort studies, focusing on the risk factors associated with postoperative CSF leakage after TSS for PA. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the risk factors.Results: A total of 34 case-control and cohort studies involving a total of 9,144 patients with PA were included in this systematic review. The overall rate of postoperative CSF leakage after TSS for PA was 5.6%. Tumor size, adenoma consistency, revision surgery, and intraoperative CSF leakage were independent risk factors for postoperative CSF leakage (ORs, 3.18-6.33). By contrast, the endoscopic approach showed a slight protective benefit compared with the microscopic approach in TSS (OR, 0.69).Conclusions: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the quality of the evidence base, informing clinical staff of the importance of screening risk factors for postoperative CSF leakage after TSS for PA. More attention should be paid to PA patients at high risk for CSF leakage after TSS to reduce complications and improve prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The new World Health Organization (WHO) classification system proposed a cell lineage-based classification scheme for pituitary adenomas in which transcription factors (TFs) play a major role as key classifiers. We aimed to evaluate clinical relevance of the new classification system in a clinical setting. Methods: TF staining was retrospectively performed for 153 clinically and histologically well characterized pituitary adenomas. Then, 484 pituitary adenomas were prospectively stained for TFs and then for relevant pituitary hormones. TF and hormone stain-based diagnoses were compared, and differences in clinical manifestations were evaluated. Results: The accuracies of antibodies for three TFs were successfully validated and had an overall matching rate was 89.6%. We identified 50 (10.4%) cases with discrepancies between TF and pituitary hormone stains. Gonadotroph adenomas lacking follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone stains account for most discrepancies. Null cell adenomas may be more prevalent than reported and may be clinically more aggressive than gonadotroph adenomas. Conclusion: The new WHO classification is mostly well matched with the traditional classification. However, until the new classification is further validated and interpreted in the context of long-term clinical outcomes, routine histological examination should include full slate of immunostains for pituitary hormones as well as TFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim behind this study was to determine the frequency of visual field and visual acuity disturbances before resection and improvement after resection of pituitary tumors in patients. Study Design: Observational study. Setting: Neurosurgery Department of Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Center, Karachi. Period: August 2015 to August 2016. Material & Methods: A total of 30 patients presented with headache and visual deterioration and diagnosed as pituitary adenoma at neurosurgery OPD, ward and ER were included through a consecutive purposive sampling technique. The detailed visual and ocular analysis (visual acuity, visual field, and extra ocular movements) carried out at time of admission and postoperatively. Tumor was removed by consultant neurosurgeon through trans-sphenoidal approach. SPSS version 17.0 was used to analyze the collected data. Results: A total of 30 cases of pituitary adenoma were included. The average age of the patients was 34.5 ± 10.8 years and among them 17 (56.7%) were males and 13 (43.3%) were females. Pre-operative assessment of the mean deviation of visual function was -8.21 ± 6.10 dB which is significantly improved to -4.6 ± 3.9 dB post-operatively (P < 0.0001). While pre-operative Visual Acuity (logMAR) was 0.3 ± 0.26 and post-operative 0.21 ± 0.2 (P <0.0001). Conclusion: Scientific observation from our study has shown that more than 90% of the patients suffering from pituitary adenomas experience visual impairment which can be improved to significant extent if treated with trans-sphenoidal surgical resection of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary adenoma (PA) is a benign tumor of parenchymal cells in the adenohypophysis. Clinically significant PA occurs in 1 in 1064 of the population. Invasive P As, pituitary carcinomas, are aggressive and can spread from sella turcica to other tissues. PA invasiveness and tumor-caused metabolic disorders can also be fatal, as almost every human organ and tissue is directly or indirectly affected by hormones secreted by the anterior or posterior pituitary gland. Most P As occur spontaneously and their origin is not well known. It is thought to be a disease of multifactorial etiology, the occurrence of which is influenced by genetic factors, hormonal stimulation, and growth factors. PA can be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Recently, many new genetic alterations have been identified that make people predisposed to pituitary adenomas. Attempts are also being made to find new molecular diagnostic and prognostic targets that would contribute to more effective treatment of pituitary adenomas. Since the development of pituitary adenomas can be significantly influenced by epigenetic changes in pituitary cells, there is currently an increasing focus on the study of epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and micro-RNA studies. Analysis of mRNA expression is also performed to assess the decrease or increase in gene expression in the case of pathology. All of these studies are aimed at finding new molecular markers for the development of targets for the treatment of pituitary adenomas. Therefore, in this article, we review the genetic issues of pituitary adenoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In patients with residual or recurrent nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs) after transsphenoidal resection, both GammaKnife (GKRS) and CyberKnife (CKRS) stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are viable treatment options. We report a retrospective single center series comparing assessing the effectiveness and complications from of these 2 commonly used SRS techniques. A total of 53 patients with prior surgical resection and residual or recurrent NFPAs who underwent GKRS or CKRS and minimum 3-month follow-up between January 2002 and February 2017 at a single center were identified. A total of 34 patients underwent GKRS and 19 received CKRS. CKRS patients had a larger maximal tumor diameter (P = 0.005) and tumor volume treated (P = 0.001). Differences between GKRS and CKRS treatment parameters included target volume, target volume treated, prescribed dose, maximum dose, prescription isodose line, and conformity index (P < 0.05). The mean follow-up time was 53.74 months for GKRS and 41.48 months for CKRS patients. Tumor progression developed in 6% of cases after GKRS versus 5% after CKRS. The mean progression-free survival was 48.44 months after GKRS and 38.57 months after CKRS (P = 0.61). Five-year actuarial tumor control rates were 91% after GKRS versus 89% after CKRS (P > 0.99). There were no differences in worsened vision or rates of hypopituitarism. In patients undergoing single fraction GKRS versus fractionated CKRS for NFPAs, both modalities had similar rates of tumor control, new hypopituitarism, and visual morbidity despite varying indications. This study validates the versatile use of these 2 SRS modalities for patients meeting their relative criteria, especially based on proximity to the optic apparatus and normal pituitary gland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cushing's disease (CD), also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent pituitary Cushing's syndrome, is a rare and serious chronic endocrine disease that is usually caused by a pituitary adenoma (especially a pituitary microadenoma). Meningioma is the most common type of primary intracranial tumor and is usually benign. The patient in this case report presented with CD coexisting with pituitary microadenoma and meningioma, which is an extremely rare comorbidity. The pathogenesis of CD associated with meningioma remains unclear. Here, we describe the case of bilateral lower extremity edema, lower limb pain, abdominal purplish striae, and abdominal distension for 9 months in a 47-year-old woman. Two years ago, the patient underwent a hysterectomy at a local hospital for hysteromyoma. She had no previous radiotherapeutic treatment or other medical history. Magnetic resonance imaging of her head revealed a sellar lesion (7.8 mm × 6.4 mm) and a spherical mass (3.0 cm × 3.0 cm) in the right frontal convexity. Her level of serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was 169 pg/mL, and her cortisol levels were 933 nmol/mL and 778 nmol/mL at 8 am and 4 pm, respectively. Preoperatively, she was diagnosed with ACTH-secreting pituitary microadenoma and meningioma. Excision of the meningioma was performed through a craniotomy, while an endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach was used to remove the pituitary adenoma. Meningioma and pituitary adenoma were confirmed by postoperative pathology. On the basis of this unusual case, the relevant literature was reviewed to illustrate the diagnosis and treatment of Cushing's disease and to explore the pathogenesis of pituitary adenoma associated with meningioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pituicytomas and granular cell tumours (GCTs) of the neurohypophysis are considered non-adenomatous neoplasms in the sellar region. The association between hormone hypersecretion and the tumours is seldom discussed and unclear. Therefore, we attempt to investigate this association based on our experience and a review of the literature. Methods: We report three patients who presented with Cushing's syndrome- or acromegaly-like symptoms at our institution. They underwent transsphenoidal surgery for suspected pituitary adenomas, which were subsequently diagnosed as pituicytomas or hypophyseal GCTs following histological and immunohistochemical analysis. We also review previously reported relevant cases of pituitary non-adenomatous tumours in the literature. Results: Four cases of Cushing's syndrome with pituicytoma and one case of acromegaly with a GCT have recently been reported. In the three cases presented here, one patient with Cushing's syndrome and one patient with acromegaly also had a pituicytoma, while the second patient with acromegaly had a GCT. Conclusions: Rather than mere coexistence of non-adenomatous pituitary tumours with hypersecretory adenomas or hyperplasia, alternative causes for the observed symptoms maybe the presence of some unidentified substances produced by the tumours that stimulate the adenohypophysis to secrete pituitary hormones. The glial cells of the pituitary gland may play an important role in oncogenic differentiation and regulation of the release of hormones. Therefore, attention should be focused on investigating the origin and functions of glial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Giant and large pituitary adenomas (PA) constitute a specific subset of PAs, with gross total resection (GTR) rates frequently not exceeding 50%. Both an anatomical inaccessibility and an inadequate tumor visualization are thought to play a role. This study analyzes risk factors for postoperative residuals after endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery for large and giant pituitary adenomas. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with giant and large PA operated between 2015 and 2018 was performed. Results: Forty patients (13 females, 27 males) were included in the analysis (30 large and 10 giant PAs). The mean MRI follow-up time was 5.9 ± 6.54 months. Overall, GTR was achieved in 29 patients (72.5%), subtotal resection in 9 (22.5%), and the inconclusive result was in 2 (5%). Unexpected residuals represented 7 (77.7%) of all 9 residual tumors. The most frequent intraoperative factor associated with unexpected residual tumors was improper identification of residual tumor due to obstruction of view in 2 (28.5%) cases and inability to distinguish normal tissue from tumor in the other two (28.5%). Sub-analysis based on tumor size revealed that with large PAs, GTR was achieved in 25 (83.3%), STR in 4 (13.3%), and inconclusive in 1 (3.3%) patient. In patients with giant PAs, GTR was achieved in 4 (40%), STR in 5 (50%), and inconclusive in 1 (10%). Analysis of preoperative factors showed a significant association of residual tumors with larger suprasellar AP distance (p = 0.041), retrosellar extension (p = 0.007), and higher Zurich Score (p = 0.029). Conclusion: Large and giant PAs are challenging lesions with high subtotal resection rates. Suprasellar AP distance, retrosellar extension, and higher Zurich Score seem to be significant predictors of degree of resection in these tumors. Improving the intraoperative ability to distinguish tumor from a normal tissue might further decrease the number of unexpected residuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Familial isolated pituitary adenoma (FIPA) is one of the most f requent conditions associated with an inherited presentation of pituitary tumors. FIPA can present with pituitary adenomas of any secretory/non-secretory type. Mutations in the gene for the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein (AIP) have been identified in approximately 20% of FIPA families and are the most frequent cause (29%) of p ituitary gigantism. Pituitary tumors in FIPA are larger, occur at a younger age and display more aggressive characteristics and evolution than sporadic adenomas. This aggressiveness is especially marked in FIPA kindreds with AIP mutations. Special attention should be paid to young patients with pituitary gigantism and/or macroadenomas, as AIP mutations are prevalent in these groups. Duplications on chromosome Xq26.3 involving the gene GPR101 lead to X-linked acrogigantism (X-LAG), a syndrome of pituitary gigantism beginning in early childhood; three kindreds with X-LAG have presented in the setting of FIPA. Management of pituitary adenomas in the setting of FIPA, AIP mutations and GPR101 duplications is often more complex than in sporadic disease due to early onset disease, aggressive tumor growth and resistance to medical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurocognitive and psychological dysfunctions associated with pituitary adenomas (PAs) are clinically relevant, though probably under-reported. The aim of the current review is to provide an update on neuropsychological status, psychopathology, and perceived quality of life (QoL) in patients with PAs. A systematic research was performed in PubMed and Scopus in order to identify reports on neurocognitive, psychiatric, and psychological disorders in PAs. Prevalence of alterations, QoL evaluation, and used tests were also recorded. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Of 62,448 identified articles, 102 studies were included in the systematic review. The prevalence of neurocognitive dysfunctions was 15–83% in Cushing's Disease (CD), 2–33% in acromegaly, mostly affecting memory and attention. Memory was altered in 22% of nonfunctioning (NF) PAs. Worsened QoL was reported in 40% of CD patients. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders in CD reached 77% and in acromegaly 63%, mostly involving depression, followed by psychosis, and anxiety. The prevalence of psychopathology was up to 83% in CD, and 35% in acromegaly. Postoperative improvement in patients with CD was observed for: learning processes, overall memory, visuospatial skills, and language skills. Short-term memory and psychomotor speed improved in NFPAs. Postoperative improvement of QoL, somatic symptoms, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and coping strategies was seen in CD and acromegaly. Reports after radiotherapy are discordant. There is wide variability in used tests. PAs have been recently shown to be associated with altered neurocognitive and neuropsychological functions, as well as QoL. These data suggest the importance of a multidisciplinary evaluation for an optimal management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma is a common intracranial tumor. Though benign in the majority of cases, complications can be excruciating to the affected individual, and recurrences after tumor removal may happen with more aggressive clinical features. T regulatory (Treg) cells are generally considered a tumor-promoting immune cell type in malignant cancers with currently unclear roles in pituitary adenoma patients. Therefore, we investigated the frequency and functional characteristics of Treg cells in nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma patients before and after tumor removal. Compared to healthy controls, untreated patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas presented an overrepresentation of highly functional circulating FOXP3+ Treg cells. Specifically, the FOXP3+ Treg cells in patients were slightly upregulated in frequency and displayed markedly elevated capacity to co-produce TGF-β and IL-10. TIM-3 is a negative regulator of proinflammatory immune responses and is expressed by highly activated Treg cells. In both healthy controls and pituitary adenoma patients, TIM-3+ Treg cells presented significantly higher levels of TGF-β and IL-10 co-producing cells than TIM-3− Treg cells but compared to healthy controls, patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas showed significantly higher levels of TIM-3+ FOXP3+ Treg cells. Interestingly, surgical removal of the tumor significantly reduced the extent of Treg upregulation in patients. Also, resected pituitary adenomas contained highly functional FOXP3+ Treg cells, with high levels of TIM-3 expression and high frequency of TGF-β and IL-10 co-producers in the TIM-3+ fraction. Overall, these results demonstrate that patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas are characterized by an overrepresentation of highly functional Treg cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are ongoing studies to predetermine non-functional invasive pituitary adenomas that may show aggressive behavior. Our aim is to discuss whether there is a relationship between the immunohistochemical presence of GH, FSH, LH, PRL, ACTH, TSH and their aggressive clinical course in non-functional pituitary adenomas. Materials and Methods: In this study, we evaluated retrospectively the files of the patients who were diagnosed with the sellar or parasellar tumor in our endocrinology clinic between the years of 2004 and 2014. The patients were divided into two groups as non-invasive pituitary adenomas and non-functional invasive pituitary adenomas. The immunohistochemical staining characteristics were compared between the two groups. Results: In this study, we scanned the data of 70 patients who were followed for non-functional sellar or parasellar mass; 47.1% of the patients were female and 52.9% were male. Of them, 39 patients had a non-functional pituitary adenoma whereas 20.5% of them had non-functional invasive adenoma. While there was a significant relationship between the immunohistochemical positivity of GH, FSH, LH and the aggressive behavior of non-functional invasive adenomas. no significant relationship was found between the immunohistochemical positivity of PRL, ACTH, TSH and the aggressive behavior of non-functional invasive adenomas. Conclusion: We found silent GH and gonadotropin adenomas as non-functional aggressive pituitary adenoma. More aggressive treatment and close clinical monitoring should be performed because atypical pituitary adenomas are characterized by invasive growth and aggressive clinical course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common type of pituitary neoplasms is benign pituitary adenoma (PA). Clinically significant PAs affect around 0.1% of the population. Currently, there is no established human PA cell culture available and when PA tumor cells are cultured they form two distinct types depending on culturing conditions either free-floating aggregates also known as pituispheres or cells adhering to the surface of cell plates and displaying mesenchymal stem-like properties. The aim of this study was to trace the origin of sphere-forming and adherent pituitary cell cultures and characterize the potential use of these surgery derived cell lines as PA model. We carried out a paired-end exome sequencing of patients' tumor and germline DNA using Illumina NextSeq followed by characterization of corresponding PA cell cultures. Variation analysis revealed a low amount of somatic mutations (mean = 5.2, range 3–7) in exomes of PAs. Somatic mutations of the primary surgery material can be detected in the exomes of respective pituispheres, but not in exomes of respective mesenchymal stem-like cells. For the first time, we show that the genome of pituispheres represents genome of PA while mesenchymal stem cells derived from the PA tissue do not contain mutations characteristic to PA in their genome, therefore, most likely representing normal cells of pituitary or surrounding tissues. This finding indicates that pituispheres can be used as a human model of PA cells, but combination of cell culturing techniques and NGS needs to be employed to adjust for disability to propagate spheres in culturing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary apoplexy (PA) is a rare, usually vision-threatening and occasionally life-threatening entity. The exact incidence of PA in large series of pituitary adenomas is variable; however, it is more common in macroadenomas and nonfunctioning adenomas though it has been reported rarely in microadenomas. There are several well-known precipitating factors for PA including the use of anticoagulants, surgery, head trauma, pregnancy, etc. The typical clinical presentation is characterized by the near universal presence of headache with or without the following: visual disturbances, extraocular palsies, altered sensorium. MRI is the imaging modality of choice. Most patients have hormonal and/or electrolyte disturbances at the time of presentation which needs to be quickly corrected. Both conservative and surgical treatment modalities have been advised for the management of this condition. However, on the basis of the evidence available in the literature, the treatment should be individualized for each patient with PA. If conservative management is chosen, close clinical monitoring is necessary for early identification of deterioration. Surgery generally is through the trans-sphenoidal route. Most patients have a good recovery in visual function and extraocular palsy. There is some evidence in the literature that surgical intervention, when necessary, should be undertaken early as it is associated with better visual outcome. The majority of the patients will have residual hormonal deficits which will require prolonged hormone replacement therapy. There is a small but significant risk of recurrent PA in patients with residual tumors, especially, in those with large tumor residues. There is also a small risk of tumor recurrence following PA and hence all patients should undergo surveillance imaging periodically to detect the possible recurrence of tumor. In recent years, the mortality from PA has decreased significantly. A high index of suspicion and prompt multidisciplinary management will often lead to an overall good outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary adenomas are one of the common indications for gamma knife radiosurgery. Gamma knife enables one to deliver a very high radiation dose to the target in a single fraction. Due to steep radiation fall out of Gamma Knife, the adjacent visual apparatus gets minimal radiation. The aim of stereotactic radiosurgery for pituitary adenomas is to stop tumor growth, normalize hormonal hypersecretion, preserve pituitary function, and protect important surrounding structures. Surgery is the treatment modality of choice in the management of pituitary adenomas and gamma knife radiosurgery is restricted for residual or recurrent lesions only. The acceptable marginal dose for non-functional adenomas is 12 Gy. Control rates varies from 76-87% at 10 years are described in non-functional pituitary adenomas. In functional adenomas, to achieve hormonal remission a higher marginal dose up to 25 Gy is needed. However, primary gamma knife radiosurgery is needed in some situations - for instance, when the patient is unfit for surgery due to various reasons or surgical difficulties like the presence of kissing carotids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary adenomas are benign tumors arising in the adenohypophysis and comprise 8%-20% of all reported primary brain tumors in the west. Transsphenoidal surgery with an aim to achieve complete tumor resection is the recommended first-line treatment for nonfunctioning as well as secretory pituitary adenoma. External beam radiation therapy (RT) has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment modality for pituitary adenoma, uncured by surgery and/or medical therapy, providing excellent long-term local control (>90%), but lower and variable rates (50%-80%) of biochemical remission in secretory tumors. The adoption of pituitary RT in the community has been limited due to concerns regarding potential late toxicity and long latency in normalization of hormonal hypersecretion. Over the years, technological advances in RT planning and delivery have resulted in progressive conformation of high doses to the target tissues while sparing adjacent neurovascular structures providing a favorable therapeutic index. The choice of RT technique should be based on size, site, and availability of infrastructure and expertise, with no significant differences between fractionated approaches and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). In contemporary clinical practice, the recommended dose of fractionated RT for pituitary adenoma is 45-50.4Gy in 25-28 fractions delivered over 5-6 weeks using modern high-precision techniques. The recommended dose of SRS given in a single fraction is 12-14Gy for nonfunctioning adenomas and 16-20Gy for secretory tumors. Late toxicity of pituitary RT includes hypopituitarism, neurocognitive impairment, neuropsychological dysfunction, optic neuropathy, cerebrovascular accidents, and second malignant neoplasms. Hence, RT in pituitary adenoma should be offered only to patients with residual, recurrent, progressive, or high-risk tumors with careful assessment of the benefit-risk ratio by an experienced multidisciplinary neurooncology team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]