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Published on: January 17, 2018
SUNCT syndrome associated with pituitary tumor: case report
Pedro A S Rocha Filho1, Antonio Cezar R Galvão, Manoel J Teixeira
1Headache Clinic, Department of Neurology, Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo SP, Brazil.
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|August 19, 2006
Summary
A pituitary tumor was linked to short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) syndrome. Surgical removal of the non-secreting adenoma resolved the patient's debilitating headaches.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) syndrome is a rare primary headache disorder.
- The exact pathophysiology of SUNCT remains unclear, with various potential triggers and associated conditions investigated.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old male presented with a 12-year history of daily, severe, unilateral headaches consistent with SUNCT syndrome.
- Associated symptoms included ipsilateral lacrimation, conjunctival injection, and rhinorrhea.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a pituitary tumor with minimal suprasellar extension.
Findings:
- Hormonal assays (prolactin, GH, TSH, ACTH) were within normal limits, indicating a non-secreting pituitary adenoma.
- Following transsphenoidal hypophysectomy and complete tumor resection, the patient experienced complete resolution of his SUNCT symptoms.
- Pathological examination confirmed a non-secreting adenoma.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential causal link between non-secreting pituitary adenomas and SUNCT syndrome.
- Surgical intervention for pituitary tumors may offer a curative treatment option for select patients with secondary SUNCT.
- Further research is warranted to explore the neuro-endocrine mechanisms underlying this association.