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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
07:43
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and prolactinoma
Evangelia Kararizou1, Elevtherios Stamboulis, Ioannis Markou
1Department of Neurology, Athens National University, Eginition Hospital, Greece. ekarariz@med.uoa.gr
Functional Neurology
|May 19, 2007
Summary
This study presents a rare case of a 59-year-old male with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and a co-existing prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma. The unusual combination prompts discussion on potential links between endocrine disorders and this neurodegenerative disease.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
- Pituitary adenomas are tumors that develop in the pituitary gland, often causing hormonal imbalances.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old male patient diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis was found to have a pituitary adenoma.
- The pituitary adenoma was identified as a prolactinoma, a tumor that overproduces the hormone prolactin.
Findings:
- This represents the first reported case of co-existing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and a prolactinoma.
- The specific etiological relationship, if any, between these two conditions remains to be elucidated.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering endocrine evaluation in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
- Further research may explore potential shared pathways or the impact of hormonal dysregulation on neurodegeneration.
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