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Rapid decrease in amino acid metabolism in prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas after bromocriptine treatment: a
M Bergström1, C Muhr, P O Lundberg
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Dopamine agonist treatment rapidly reduced amino acid metabolism in prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas. Bromocriptine treatment led to significant tumor shrinkage, suggesting a rapid effect on protein synthesis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Oncology
Background:
- Prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas are common tumors.
- Dopamine agonists are a standard treatment for these adenomas.
- Assessing treatment response often relies on hormonal levels and imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of dopamine agonist treatment on amino acid metabolism in pituitary adenomas.
- To monitor metabolic changes using positron emission tomography (PET) with L-[11C]methionine.
- To correlate metabolic changes with tumor shrinkage.
Main Methods:
- Positron emission tomography (PET) using L-[11C]methionine was performed on four patients.
- Patients received intramuscular bromocriptine retard (50 mg).
- Metabolic activity and tumor size were assessed at baseline and follow-up intervals.
Main Results:
- A 40% decrease in amino acid metabolism was observed within hours of bromocriptine administration.
- A 70% reduction in tumor metabolism was noted in two patients at 7-9 days.
- Significant tumor shrinkage occurred in all patients following the metabolic changes.
Conclusions:
- Bromocriptine demonstrates a rapid and significant impact on amino acid metabolism in prolactinomas.
- This metabolic effect precedes and correlates with tumor shrinkage.
- The findings suggest bromocriptine affects protein synthesis in pituitary adenoma cells.