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Published on: August 14, 2012
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Ageing and pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs): from bench to bedside
Dario De Alcubierre1,2, Francesca Carbonara3, Tiziana Feola1,2
1Neuromed IRCCS, Pozzilli (IS), Italy.
Endocrine-Related Cancer
|March 18, 2026
Summary
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are increasingly detected in older adults, often presenting as large tumors with mass effects. Management requires multidisciplinary evaluation, considering age-related changes and potential confounding factors.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Prevalence of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) is rising in individuals over 65 due to increased life expectancy.
- Incidental detection on neuroimaging is common, with most being macrotumors (>1 cm) causing mass effects, particularly visual defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the unique epidemiological, clinical, and biological characteristics of PitNETs in the elderly population.
- To highlight diagnostic challenges and management considerations specific to older patients with PitNETs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies of PitNETs in elderly patients (>65 years).
- Analysis of clinical presentations, tumor types, biological features, and diagnostic/management strategies.
Main Results:
- Clinically non-functioning PitNETs are most prevalent (75%), often gonadotroph adenomas.
- Functioning PitNETs present differently in the elderly, with somatotroph, prolactinoma, rare corticotroph, and uncommon thyrotroph tumors noted.
- Epigenetic alterations are more common than mutations; senescence and immune surveillance changes may play a role.
Conclusions:
- Age-related endocrinological changes and comorbidities can confound PitNET diagnosis and management.
- Multidisciplinary evaluation and experienced surgical intervention are crucial for personalized therapeutic goals.
- Development of novel diagnostic and prognostic markers is needed for improved clinical management and follow-up.
