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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
07:01
An Orthotopic Mouse Model of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma
Published on: April 17, 2013
Primary hypothyroidism presenting as a pituitary mass.
1Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson 39216-4505, USA.
Journal of the Mississippi State Medical Association
|March 25, 2000
Summary
Pituitary enlargement due to primary hypothyroidism is rare and mimics tumors on imaging. Prompt diagnosis and thyroxine therapy resolved the pituitary enlargement, avoiding unnecessary surgery.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroimaging
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Pituitary enlargement can be caused by primary pituitary tumors or secondary conditions.
- Distinguishing secondary pituitary enlargement from tumors on imaging (CT/MRI) is challenging.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old female presented with a pituitary mass requiring neurosurgical evaluation.
- Elevated thyrotropin-stimulating hormone (TSH) and low thyroid hormones indicated primary hypothyroidism.
Findings:
- The patient's pituitary enlargement was secondary to primary hypothyroidism, not a tumor.
- Thyroxine replacement therapy normalized pituitary gland size.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of biochemical evaluation in pituitary mass diagnosis.
- Accurate diagnosis can prevent unnecessary surgical intervention for pituitary enlargement.
- Hormone replacement therapy is a crucial, non-surgical treatment option.
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