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Normal pituitary gland: 1. Macroscopic anatomy-CT correlation.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|July 1, 1983
Summary
Radiologists can better detect subtle pituitary microadenomas by understanding normal pituitary gland variations on computed tomographic (CT) scans. This study details predictable CT patterns of the healthy pituitary gland, aiding in differentiating it from small tumors.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Endocrinology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Pituitary microadenomas with minimal mass effect are challenging to identify on computed tomographic (CT) scans.
- Accurate radiologic recognition is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the computed tomographic (CT) appearance of the normal pituitary gland.
- To establish a baseline for differentiating normal variations from subtle pituitary microadenomas.
Main Methods:
- Coronal CT imaging of 13 autopsy pituitary gland and sella turcica specimens.
- Histological sectioning of specimens in corresponding coronal planes.
- Comparison of CT findings with histological data and in vivo CT scans of 30 normal pituitary glands.
Main Results:
- The normal pituitary gland exhibits a nonhomogeneous CT appearance.
- Predictable patterns of heterogeneity were observed, influenced by the anatomical relationships between the anterior, intermediate, and posterior lobes.
- CT findings correlated well with histological examination.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the varied CT appearance of the normal pituitary gland is essential for improving the detection of subtle pituitary microadenomas.
- The anatomical substructure of the pituitary gland contributes to its heterogeneous appearance on CT.