Update on pituitary adenomas in the 2017 World Health Organization classification: innovations and perspectives

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) classifications of tumors are crucial for accurate tumor diagnosis.
• Each edition incorporates novel information and diagnostic updates.
• The 2017 WHO Classification of Tumors of Endocrine Organs, 4th edition, specifically addresses pituitary adenomas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the innovations in the 2017 WHO Classification of Tumors of Endocrine Organs regarding pituitary adenomas.
• To highlight the updated diagnostic guidelines and reporting systems for pituitary adenomas.
• To inform pathologists and clinicians about new entities, molecular information, and treatment modalities.

Main Methods:

• Review and analysis of the 2017 WHO Classification of Tumors of Endocrine Organs, 4th edition.
• Focus on diagnostic criteria and recommended reporting systems for pituitary adenomas.
• Evaluation of the utility of various diagnostic markers, including immunohistochemistry.

Main Results:

• The 2017 classification introduces updated terminology and diagnostic guidelines for pituitary adenomas.
• The recommended reporting system relies on morphology and hormonal content assessed by immunohistochemistry.
• Electron microscopy and certain markers (Ki-67, p53, transcription factors) are not recommended for routine diagnosis but may offer prognostic information.

Conclusions:

• The 2017 WHO classification provides significant advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of pituitary tumors.
• It offers comprehensive new information for pathologists and clinicians.
• The updated guidelines enhance the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic strategies for pituitary adenomas.