Pituitary Adenomas: Insights into the Recent Trends

Abstract

Pituitary adenoma is a type of pituitary neoplasms that is typically a benign, slow-growing tumor that arises from cells in the pituitary gland. Pituitary adenomas are classified according to their secretory products into functioning (Endocrine-active) tumors that represent almost 70% of pituitary tumors, and non-functioning adenomas (Endocrine-inactive). Because of physiologic effects of excess hormones, the functioning tumors present earlier than non-functioning adenomas. Patients with pituitary adenomas usually present with symptoms related to hormonal disturbances. However, pressure symptoms, such as headache, visual field defects, cranial nerve palsies and hypopituitarism may occur due to the mass effect of large tumors. Treatment of pituitary adenomas include transsphenoidal surgery and adjunctive therapy including supervoltage radiation and pharmacologic agents. This review throws light on pituitary adenoma regarding its prevalence, predisposing factors, types, clinical presentation, diagnosis and possible lines of management in view of the recent trends.