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Size reduction of extrasellar pituitary tumors during bromocriptine treatment

F Wollesen, T Andersen, A Karle

    Annals of Internal Medicine
    |March 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Bromocriptine effectively shrinks large pituitary tumors, both secreting and non-secreting types. This study shows significant tumor size reduction, offering a successful treatment option for pituitary adenomas.

    Area of Science:

    • Endocrinology
    • Neurosurgery
    • Oncology

    Background:

    • Bromocriptine is known for reducing prolactinomas.
    • Large, extrasellar pituitary tumors require effective treatment options.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the efficacy of bromocriptine in reducing the size of large, extrasellar pituitary tumors.
    • To assess bromocriptine's effect on both secreting and non-secreting pituitary tumors.

    Main Methods:

    • Prospective treatment of 20 patients with bromocriptine (15-60 mg/d) for up to 4.5 years.
    • Tumor size was measured using computed tomographic (CT) scans and planimetry.
    • Tumor response was assessed based on size reduction.

    Main Results:

    • 16 out of 20 tumors showed immediate size reduction.
    • Non-secreting tumors reduced by a median of 32%; secreting tumors reduced by a median of 51%.
    • Tumor size reduction correlated with pretreatment size but not hormone levels or prior radiation.

    Conclusions:

    • Bromocriptine significantly reduces the size of both secreting and non-secreting pituitary tumors.
    • The success rate is comparable to conventional treatments.
    • Bromocriptine represents a clinically significant therapeutic option for pituitary adenomas.

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