All::Endocrinology::Diseases::Prolactinoma
Intro
Define prolactinomas.
Type of pituitary adenoma, benign tumor of the pituitary gland, producing excess prolactin.
How are pituitary adenomas classified based on size?
Microadenoma is <1cm, macroadenoma is >1cm.
How are pituitary adenomas classified based on hormonal status?
Secretory/functioning adenoma produces excess hormone, non-secretory/functioning adenoma does not.
What hormone is produced in excess by prolactinomas?
Prolactin.
What are the features of excess prolactin in women?
Amenorrhoea, infertility, galactorrhoea, osteoporosis.
What are the features of excess prolactin in men?
Impotence, loss of libido, galactorrhoea.
What additional symptoms may be seen with macroadenomas?
Headache, visual disturbances, symptoms and signs of hypopituitarism.
What diagnostic tool is used for prolactinomas?
MRI.
How are symptomatic patients with prolactinomas typically treated medically?
Dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline, bromocriptine).
When is surgery performed for prolactinomas?
When patients cannot tolerate or fail to respond to medical therapy.
What is the preferred surgical approach for prolactinomas?
Trans-sphenoidal approach.