Adenoma prolactin-secreting pituitary, also known as prolactinoma, is a type of benign tumor that develops in the pituitary gland, specifically in the cells that produce the hormone prolactin. The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, and it plays a crucial role in regulating various functions of the body through the production and release of hormones.
Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary tumors and are typically non-cancerous growths. These adenomas result in excessive production and secretion of the hormone prolactin, a hormone primarily responsible for milk production in women during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but also involved in other reproductive functions in both men and women.
The overproduction of prolactin by the adenoma can lead to a range of symptoms and complications. In women, it can cause menstrual irregularities, including amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), galactorrhea (abnormal breast milk production), and infertility. In men, prolactinomas can cause decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and even infertility. Moreover, both genders may experience headaches, vision problems, and other neurological symptoms due to the tumor's size and its effect on surrounding structures.
The diagnosis of adenoma prolactin-secreting pituitary often involves blood tests to measure prolactin levels, as well as imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect the presence and size of the tumor in the pituitary gland.
Treatment options for adenoma prolactin-secreting pituitary include medications, such as dopamine agonists, which reduce the production and release of prolactin, effectively shrinking the tumor and alleviating symptoms. In some cases
