Pituitary Macroadenoma

http://www.mdanderson.org/images/macrodenoma.jpg

Additional images and radiology based information at (I thought it was interesting)!:
http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/SMD/rad/neurocases/Neurocase81.htm



Pituitary Macroadenoma is a a benign pituitary tumor of a size greater than 10mm. It must measure greater than 10mm to be considered a macroadenoma. If the tumor measures smaller than 10mm it would then be considered a pituitary microadenoma. The pituitary gland controls and regulates growth, metabolism, and reproduction in the human body.

Patients with pituitary macroadenoma may present with the following symptoms:

• weakness




• fatigue




• restlessness




• headaches




• nausea




• vomiting




• vertigo




• changes in hair growth




• changes in body weight




• loss of vision due to the macroadenoma compressing the optic nerve

Diagnosing a pituitary macroadenoma begins with the following tests being ordered by a physician. More common diagnosis processes include: blood tests, urine test, CT scans, and MRI scan; however some less common tests may include petrosal sinus samplings, and certain eye exams.Treating a pituitary macroadenoma include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy to kill the tumor, and also a range of drug therapies depending on the patient's age and overall health. If left untreated, and depending on the hormone that the macroadenoma is secreting several additional diseases can develop such as: Cushing's disease, Acromegaly, Lack of menstruation, Abnormal production of breast milk, and even Diabetes Insipidus.