Non-surgical management of hormone-secreting pituitary tumors

J Clin Neurosci. 2009 Aug;16(8):985-93. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2008.11.001. Epub 2009 May 13.

Abstract

Hormone-secreting pituitary tumors account for about 30% of all pituitary tumors. Successful long-term management of patients with these tumors frequently requires a multimodality team approach. Given that the role and efficacy of neurosurgical resection of hormone-secreting pituitary tumors is well described, we focus this review on the other important treatment modalities that are becoming increasingly crucial in the management of acromegaly, Cushing's disease and prolactinomas. Medical management with standard and novel drugs as well as the role and effectiveness of radiation therapy and radiosurgery are discussed in detail.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acromegaly / therapy*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Hormones / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Pituitary ACTH Hypersecretion / therapy*
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Prolactinoma / metabolism
  • Prolactinoma / therapy*
  • Radiosurgery / adverse effects
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Radiotherapy Dosage

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Hormones