With the popularity of imaging and the increasing emphasis on health, more and more patients are being found to have “pituitary adenomas” by chance, but do all patients need surgery? The answer is no. In the literature, non-selective autopsy studies of the general population have shown that the incidence of pituitary adenomas is about 20-25%. The number of patients with pituitary tumors around us is definitely much lower than this number, so many patients do not need treatment. Specifically, incidentally detected pituitary adenomas without any symptoms may be selected for observation and periodic review of imaging rather than immediate aggressive treatment.
In addition, in adolescents, their pituitary gland may be physiologically hyperplastic and imaging is difficult to distinguish from pituitary microadenomas, making surgery even more prudent! In addition, for prolactin adenomas, bromocriptine medication is very effective and can allow patients to be fertile again, if they can accept the side effects of bromocriptine treatment, so they can be treated first with bromocriptine medication.
Generally speaking, the indications for surgery are: 1. pituitary stroke is an urgent indication for surgery; 2. tumor produces gradually aggravating occupying effect; 3. patients with obvious endocrine symptoms (bromocriptine treatment can be considered first for hyperprolactin adenoma); 4. when other treatment methods fail.
For patients, the purpose of treatment is to get a normal or near-normal life by relieving pain, not to cure the disease for the sake of cure. If a pituitary tumor does not have any impact on your real life, or can be treated with medication, why must it be operated immediately? But close observation is a must!
Finally, we solemnly remind you that in view of the continuous and infinite development of science and the limitation of personal knowledge, the above scientific knowledge is for your reference only. If you are suffering from or suspected of suffering from pituitary adenoma, please make sure you go to a hospital to receive advice and treatment from an experienced specialist.