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Subacute pituitary apoplexy: MR and CT appearance
C A Kyle1, R A Laster, E M Burton
1Department of Radiology, Methodist Hospital of Memphis, TN.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Subacute hemorrhage into pituitary adenomas can cause visual disturbance and hypopituitarism. Magnetic resonance imaging is preferred for diagnosing pituitary apoplexy due to its accuracy in detecting hemorrhage.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Pituitary adenomas are common tumors, and hemorrhage into them (pituitary apoplexy) can lead to acute clinical deterioration.
- Subacute or chronic presentations of pituitary apoplexy are less common but can mimic other neurological conditions.
Observation:
- Three cases of subacute hemorrhage into pituitary adenomas were observed.
- Patients presented with visual disturbances and hypopituitarism, requiring corticosteroid treatment.
- Bromocriptine was not administered to any of the patients.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is superior to computed tomography (CT) in visualizing the metabolic byproducts of hemorrhage.
- MR imaging provides more precise characterization of subacute or chronic hemorrhage in pituitary adenomas.
Implications:
- MR imaging should be the preferred modality for investigating pituitary apoplexy, especially in cases of prolonged headache and visual disturbance.
- Accurate diagnosis through MR imaging is crucial for appropriate management of pituitary adenoma hemorrhage.
- Understanding the imaging characteristics of pituitary apoplexy aids in differentiating it from other causes of visual and endocrine dysfunction.