Pituitary metastasis from renal cell carcinoma: Case report, systematic review, and worldwide distribution analysis

Pituitary metastases from renal cell carcinoma (PM-RCC) are rare, with an unfavorable prognosis and survival ranging from 6 to 22 months. The objectives of this study were (1) to present a case of a 61-year-old male who achieved a 44-month survival, and (2) to analyze the literature focusing on survival and worldwide distribution. The reported case achieved one of the longest survivals documented after multimodal treatment including surgery, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. The systematic review showed that PM-RCC predominantly affects males (73.7%) and has a mean survival of 10.9 months, lower than that reported for other pituitary metastases (median 16.5 months). Metastasis was initially suspected in only 13.1% of cases, and surgery was the most common treatment (84%), with wide variation in adjuvant therapy use. Most cases originated from high-income countries, with very limited or no representation from some regions. Relevant characteristics and prognostic factors are discussed.