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[Glycoprotein hormone alpha-subunit secretion in non-functioning pituitary adenomas]
M Góth1, I Szabolcs, S Czirják
1Haynal Imre Egészségtudományi Egyetem, I. Belgyógyászati Klinika, Budapest.
Orvosi Hetilap
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Elevated free glycoprotein hormone alpha-subunit is uncommon in pituitary adenomas. Measuring alpha-subunit levels is not a reliable diagnostic tool for non-functioning pituitary adenomas.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Pituitary adenomas are common tumors.
- Glycoprotein hormone alpha-subunit (alpha-GSU) is a marker for pituitary tumors.
- The diagnostic utility of alpha-GSU in non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFAs) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of elevated alpha-GSU in various pituitary adenomas.
- To assess the diagnostic value of basal and stimulated alpha-GSU secretion in NFAs.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected for basal and stimulated alpha-GSU measurements.
- Patients included those with non-functioning adenomas, acromegaly, prolactinomas, and gonadotropin adenomas.
- Hormone levels were measured before and after TRH stimulation.
Main Results:
- Overall elevated alpha-GSU was found in 11.4% of 79 pituitary adenoma cases.
- Basal alpha-GSU was elevated in 1/22 untreated and 1/16 operated NFAs.
- TRH stimulation caused paradoxical alpha-GSU elevation in 6/9 untreated NFAs.
Conclusions:
- Basal and stimulated alpha-GSU measurements have limited diagnostic value for NFAs.
- Transsphenoidal surgery did not alter alpha-GSU secretion in NFA or acromegaly patients.
- NFAs are heterogeneous, with varying alpha-GSU secretion patterns possibly due to biosynthetic abnormalities.