Prolactinoma in children and adolescents

The evolution of prolactinomas in children and adolescents continues to be controversial. Girls have more prevalence of microprolactinomas and their signs and symptoms are related to hyperprolactinemia and the resulting hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. In males, the greater incidence of macroadenomas results in the presence of neuro-ophthalmologic signs. The larger prevalence of macroadenomas in males is consistent with findings in adults and would not be related to a later diagnosis. In patients with asymptomatic hyperprolactinemia, the presence of altered proportions of PRL isoforms should be evaluated. The diagnosis of prolactinoma requires both radiographic evidence of pituitary adenoma and laboratory analysis documenting the presence of sustained hyperprolactinemia. Because of their effectiveness and tolerance, dopaminergic agonists are the initial therapy of choice in pediatric age patients. Finally, molecular biology and genetic studies have brought new insights into the pathogenesis, clinical behavior and different therapeutic responses.