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Suprasellar peri-infundibular ectopic prolactinoma--case report
Ryo Ueda1, Makoto Katayama, Kazunari Yoshida
1Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan. ueryo@ann.hi-ho.ne.jp
Neurologia Medico-Chirurgica
|February 6, 2003
Summary
A suprasellar tumor initially suspected as craniopharyngioma was diagnosed as an ectopic pituitary adenoma. This prolactin-producing tumor resolved after surgery, improving vision and hormone levels.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Suprasellar cystic tumors can present with visual disturbances and hormonal imbalances.
- Craniopharyngioma is a common differential diagnosis for suprasellar masses in young adults.
Observation:
- A 21-year-old man presented with bitemporal hemianopia and hyperprolactinemia.
- MR imaging revealed a suprasellar cystic tumor near the pituitary stalk, initially diagnosed as craniopharyngioma.
- Intraoperative findings and histological examination revealed a prolactin-producing pituitary adenoma in the peri-infundibular region.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the suprasellar ectopic pituitary adenoma led to the resolution of bitemporal hemianopia and normalization of serum prolactin levels.
- The pituitary stalk and diaphragma sellae remained intact throughout the process.
- Histological analysis confirmed a prolactin-producing pituitary adenoma, distinct from the anterior pituitary gland.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering ectopic pituitary adenomas in the differential diagnosis of suprasellar masses.
- Accurate diagnosis and surgical management can lead to favorable outcomes, including visual recovery and hormonal normalization.
- Ectopic pituitary adenomas, though rare, require careful evaluation to distinguish them from other suprasellar pathologies.