Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026
07:43
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Clinically silent somatotroph adenomas are common
Alisha N Wade1, Jennifer Baccon, M Sean Grady
1Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, 12-135 Translational Research Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
European Journal of Endocrinology
|April 16, 2011
Summary
Clinically silent somatotroph adenomas are more common than previously thought, making up one-third of all somatotroph adenomas. Measuring IGF1 in patients with sellar masses can help identify these tumors and guide treatment.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Somatotroph adenomas typically cause acromegaly due to excessive growth hormone (GH) secretion.
- Silent and clinically silent somatotroph adenomas, lacking overt clinical or biochemical signs, have been reported but their frequency is unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of clinically silent somatotroph adenomas.
- To assess the prevalence of different somatotroph adenoma subtypes in patients with pituitary adenomas.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 100 consecutive surgically excised pituitary adenomas.
- Immunohistochemical classification of adenomas by cell type.
- Subclassification of somatotroph adenomas into classic, subtle, clinically silent, and silent based on clinical features and IGF1 levels.
Main Results:
- Somatotroph adenomas constituted 24% of all pituitary adenomas studied.
- Among somatotroph adenomas, 33.3% were classified as clinically silent.
- Classic and subtle somatotroph adenomas accounted for 45.8% and 16.7%, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Clinically silent somatotroph adenomas are more prevalent than previously recognized.
- Measurement of IGF1 in patients with sellar masses is recommended for identifying somatotroph adenomas.
- Identifying somatotroph adenomas expands therapeutic options and provides a tumor marker for treatment monitoring.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction
Cushing syndrome refers to the collection of clinical manifestations that arise when tissues are exposed to excessive amounts of cortisol or cortisol-like medications over an extended period. Cortisol, a glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex, regulates metabolism, immune responses, and the body’s adaptation to stress. When its concentration remains chronically elevated, these physiological pathways become dysregulated, resulting in the characteristic features of the syndrome.Exogenous...
01:25Hyperthyroidism I: Introduction
Hyperthyroidism is a type of thyrotoxicosis characterized by the thyroid gland's overproduction of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). This hormone excess increases the basal metabolic rate and enhances sensitivity to catecholamines.DiagnosisDiagnosis is based on clinical features and biochemical testing. It typically shows suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels below 0.4 mIU/L, with elevated free T3 and/or T4. Additional tests, including thyroid...
01:27Goiter
Goiter refers to an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland that may appear as a diffuse goiter (uniform enlargement) or nodular (single or multiple nodules). Functionally, it is classified as nontoxic (normal/low hormone levels) or toxic (excess hormone production).PathophysiologyDiffuse thyroid enlargement typically results from prolonged stimulation by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or TSH-like agents, commonly seen in hypothyroidism or iodine deficiency. In contrast, in hyperthyroid...
01:27Adrenal Gland Disorders
Adrenal gland disorders manifest when the production of adrenal hormones deviates from the norm, resulting in either excessive or insufficient concentrations.
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
01:27Major Hormones and Their Functions
Hormones, the biochemical messengers produced by endocrine glands, are pivotal in regulating bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. Each hormone's balance is crucial; imbalances can lead to significant physiological disruptions. Major hormones include oxytocin, cortisol, epinephrine, estrogen, testosterone, thyroxine, growth hormone, insulin, and glucagon.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
00:59The Parathyroid Glands
The two pairs of parathyroid glands embedded within the posterior surface of the thyroid gland are restricted by a dense capsule around them. These glands comprise two distinct cell populations—parathyroid oxyphil and parathyroid principal cells- pivotal in calcium homeostasis.
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by producing...
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by producing...