Transsphenoidal pituitary surgery in the treatment of patients with Cushing's disease

Transsphenoidal adenomectomy is the treatment of choice for patients with Cushing's disease. The combination of high serum and urinary cortisol and high plasma ACTH point to a nonadrenal source for Cushing's syndrome. It is important to rule out an ectopic source of ACTH production. Imaging of the sella with MRI and CT and sampling petrosal sinus blood for ACTH measurement should allow differentiation between the two conditions. For younger patients, every effort should be made to preserve the normal gland. If in the younger patient the adenoma cannot be clearly demonstrated, it is appropriate to remove the central portion of the gland, as advocated by Hardy. Should hypercortisolism persist, radiation therapy to the sella should be considered before attempting total hypophysectomy. In the woman past childbearing age, a total hypophysectomy can readily be considered if a sharply demarcated adenoma is not found. In fact, we counsel our older patients before operation that a total hypophysectomy is a possibility. For the patient with an aggressive tumor that is not cured by pituitary operation, radiation therapy must be considered. If it is not possible to wait for the therapeutic effect of radiation, adrenal suppression with aminoglutethimide, metyrapone, or ketoconazole is indicated. Adrenalectomy may be considered.