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Rapid change in visual fields associated with suprasellar lymphocytic hypophysitis.
1Department of Anatomy, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.
Journal of Clinical Neuro-Ophthalmology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
A pregnant woman with vision loss experienced unexpected improvement with steroids, revealing a rare pituitary tumor. This case highlights steroids
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Endocrinology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- A pregnant patient presented with sudden visual field defects and decreased visual acuity.
- Imaging revealed a suprasellar mass, initially suspected to be a tuberculum sellae meningioma.
Observation:
- High-dose steroids administered for fetal lung maturity unexpectedly led to a dramatic improvement in the patient's visual fields.
- Visual field deterioration recurred upon steroid dose reduction, necessitating surgical intervention.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination identified the suprasellar mass as lymphocytic hypophysitis, a rare anterior pituitary disorder.
- The tumor's suprasellar location and steroid responsiveness were notable features.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential preoperative role for steroids in managing lymphocytic hypophysitis, particularly in pregnant patients.
- The findings underscore the importance of considering diverse diagnoses for suprasellar masses presenting with visual disturbances during pregnancy.