Pituitary Gland Volume in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Case-Control Volumetric MRI Study

Area of Science:

• Neuroendocrinology
• Radiology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain condition linked to neuroendocrine issues.
• Pituitary morphology data in FM patients is scarce.
• Potential shared mechanisms exist between FM, empty sella (ES), and intracranial hypertension.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate pituitary gland volume (PGV) and height (PGH) in FM patients.
• To determine the frequency of ES in FM patients.
• Utilize volumetric MRI for precise pituitary measurements.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, cross-sectional study of 30 female FM patients and 26 controls.
• 3-T brain MRI with manual segmentation for volumetric analysis.
• Statistical analysis included t-tests, ANCOVA, and linear regression (p < 0.05).

Main Results:

• FM patients had significantly higher mean PGV (625.8 mm³ vs. 519.5 mm³; p=0.004).
• No significant difference in PGH or ES prevalence between FM and control groups.
• Age and BMI were comparable between groups.

Conclusions:

• Fibromyalgia patients exhibit increased pituitary gland volume.
• Empty sella is uncommon and not significantly different between FM patients and controls.
• Further research with larger cohorts and hormonal analysis is recommended.