Inflammatory pseudotumor of the pituitary: case report

Surg Neurol. 2004 Sep;62(3):264-7; discussion 267. doi: 10.1016/j.surneu.2003.09.037.

Abstract

Background: Inflammatory pseudotumor of the pituitary is a very rare nonneoplastic lesion. We describe a case of a patient with past history of lymphocytic meningitis.

Case description: A 32-year-old man presented with polyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, and panhypopituitarism. He had 2 episodes of lymphocytic meningitis in the last two years. Magnetic resonance image (MRI) disclosed a sellar and suprasellar mass with extension to the pituitary stalk. The patient underwent transnasal-transsphenoidal surgery to remove the lesion. Histopathological findings revealed mixed inflammatory cells composed mainly of lymphocytes, macrophages and extensive fibrosis.

Conclusions: Inflammatory pseudotumor of the pituitary, although rare, should be included in the differential diagnosis of a sellar and suprasellar mass.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Granuloma, Plasma Cell / pathology*
  • Granuloma, Plasma Cell / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pituitary Diseases / pathology*
  • Pituitary Diseases / surgery*