Prolactinoma

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Introduction

 

 

 

The Case of...

a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis to get students thinking.

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Causes and Risk Factors

 

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Pathophysiology

Prolactinomas have a tendency to calcify. Increased prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) cause amenorrhea, galactorrhea, loss of libido, and infertility.

In males, hyperprolactinemia can lead to delayed or arrested puberty, infertility, impotence, or undervirilization.

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Signs and Symptoms

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Investigations

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Differential Diagnosis

 

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Treatments

Microadinomas can be treated with DA agonists such as bromocriptine or cabergoline. This is a long term treatment.

Macroadenomas also respond well to DA agonists, but surgery can be necessary for mass effects.

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Consequences and Course

Pregancy causes pituitary hyperplasia, and some prolactinomas are hormone responsive.

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Resources and References

 

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Topic Development

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