Ectopic Pituitary Adenoma Presenting as a Clival Mass

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Endocrinology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Pituitary adenomas are common intracranial tumors.
• Ectopic pituitary adenomas are rare and pose diagnostic challenges.
• Understanding anatomy and imaging is vital for managing ectopic adenomas.

Observation:

• A 77-year-old woman presented with a clival mass.
• The mass invaded the left cavernous sinus.
• The patient's presentation mimicked other skull base pathologies.

Findings:

• Radiological imaging confirmed a clival mass with extrasellar extension.
• Histopathological analysis revealed it to be an ectopic pituitary adenoma.
• The tumor exhibited specific radiological characteristics aiding diagnosis.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering ectopic pituitary adenomas in the differential diagnosis of clival masses.
• Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for accurate localization and characterization.
• Multidisciplinary management involving neurosurgery and endocrinology is essential for optimal patient outcomes.