Effect of pinealectomy on serum melatonin, luteinizing hormone and prolactin: a case report

A patient, aged 47 is described in whom changes in hormonal profiles were observed following surgical excision of the pineal. She presented with a clinical syndrome of increased intracranial pressure and postmenopausal symptoms. Computerized tomographic scans showed obstructive hydrocephalus from a cystic lesion in the pineal region. Surgical removal of the cystic mass revealed a benign ependymal cyst and normal pineal tissue. After the operation, she had no nocturnal increase in serum melatonin. The morning basal LH was further elevated and night-time PRL showed little fluctuation from the basal levels.