All::Endocrinology::Diseases::Prolactinoma

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Define prolactinomas.

Type of pituitary adenoma, benign tumor of the pituitary gland, producing excess prolactin.

Prolactinoma

How are pituitary adenomas classified based on size?

Microadenoma is <1cm, macroadenoma is >1cm.

Prolactinoma

How are pituitary adenomas classified based on hormonal status?

Secretory/functioning adenoma produces excess hormone, non-secretory/functioning adenoma does not.

Prolactinoma

What hormone is produced in excess by prolactinomas?

Prolactin.

Prolactinoma

What are the features of excess prolactin in women?

Amenorrhoea, infertility, galactorrhoea, osteoporosis.

Prolactinoma

What are the features of excess prolactin in men?

Impotence, loss of libido, galactorrhoea.

Prolactinoma

What additional symptoms may be seen with macroadenomas?

Headache, visual disturbances, symptoms and signs of hypopituitarism.

Prolactinoma

What diagnostic tool is used for prolactinomas?

MRI.

Prolactinoma

How are symptomatic patients with prolactinomas typically treated medically?

Dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline, bromocriptine).

Prolactinoma

When is surgery performed for prolactinomas?

When patients cannot tolerate or fail to respond to medical therapy.

Prolactinoma

What is the preferred surgical approach for prolactinomas?

Trans-sphenoidal approach.

Prolactinoma