MACROPROLACTINOMAS Meaning and
Definition
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Macroprolactinomas are noncancerous tumors that arise within the pituitary gland, specifically affecting the lactotroph cells, which are responsible for producing the hormone prolactin. These tumors are characterized by their large size, typically exceeding 1 centimeter in diameter.
Macroprolactinomas can lead to elevated levels of prolactin, a condition known as hyperprolactinemia. This hormonal imbalance can have various clinical manifestations in both men and women. In women, it often results in disruption of the menstrual cycle, with irregular or absent menstrual periods. It can also cause galactorrhea, which is the spontaneous production of breast milk outside of pregnancy or breastfeeding. In men, macroprolactinomas may cause erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and in some cases, even infertility.
Due to their size, macroprolactinomas can exert pressure on neighboring structures in the brain, leading to symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, and in severe cases, neurological deficits. Therefore, early detection and treatment of these tumors are crucial to prevent potential complications.
Treatment options for macroprolactinomas include medication therapy with dopamine agonists, such as cabergoline or bromocriptine. These medications work to decrease prolactin levels and reduce tumor size. In some cases, surgery or radiation therapy may be necessary if the tumor is resistant to medical treatment or if there are severe neurological symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure adequate control of prolactin levels and the tumor's size.
Common Misspellings for MACROPROLACTINOMAS
- nacroprolactinomas
- kacroprolactinomas
- jacroprolactinomas
- mzcroprolactinomas
- mscroprolactinomas
- mwcroprolactinomas
- mqcroprolactinomas
- maxroprolactinomas
- mavroprolactinomas
- mafroprolactinomas
- madroprolactinomas
- maceoprolactinomas
- macdoprolactinomas
- macfoprolactinomas
- mactoprolactinomas
- mac5oprolactinomas
- mac4oprolactinomas
- macriprolactinomas
- macrkprolactinomas
- macrlprolactinomas
Etymology of MACROPROLACTINOMAS
The word "Macroprolactinomas" is a medical term that combines two components: "macro-" and "prolactinoma".
- "Macro-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "makros", meaning "large" or "long". In medical terminology, it is commonly used to denote "large" or "enlarged".
- "Prolactinoma" is derived from the combination of two components: "prolactin" and the suffix "-oma".
- "Prolactin" refers to a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain, responsible for milk production in women.
- The suffix "-oma" is used in medical terminology to indicate a tumor or abnormal growth.
Therefore, "Macroprolactinomas" refers to large-sized tumors of the pituitary gland that overproduce prolactin hormone.
