Pituitary Tumors in Maxillofacial Radiology and Daily Practice: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Endocrinology
• Oncology

Background:

• Lateral cephalometric radiographs and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) are standard in dental and maxillofacial radiology.
• These imaging techniques can incidentally reveal pituitary tumors in the sellar region.
• Understanding the presentation and prevalence of pituitary tumors on dental imaging is clinically significant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a structured overview of how pituitary tumors appear on dental radiographs.
• To assess the frequency of pituitary tumors detected via dental imaging.
• To highlight the clinical relevance for dental professionals.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was performed following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Searched MEDLINE, Livivo, and Google Scholar up to January 2026 for pituitary tumors and dental radiology.
• Included human studies in English or German reporting radiological presentation, clinical manifestation, and epidemiology.

Main Results:

• Fifteen studies were included, comprising case-control, observational, case reports, and guidelines.
• Pituitary tumors commonly present as enlarged, deformed, or double-contoured sella turcica.
• Growth hormone-producing adenomas may show cephalometric changes like mandibular enlargement; evidence is descriptive, lacking robust prevalence data.

Conclusions:

• Pituitary tumors, common brain tumors, may be initially suspected from routine dental radiographs.
• Radiographic abnormalities and clinical features suggestive of pituitary tumors warrant endocrine and neuroradiological assessment.
• Increased awareness among dental professionals is crucial for early detection and management.