User:Mr. Ibrahem/Prolactinoma

A prolactinoma is a benign tumor of the pituitary gland that produces the hormone prolactin. Symptoms result from high prolactin levels or pressure on surrounding tissues. High prolactin can result in sexual dysfunction in males; decreased periods, infertility, and milk production in females; and decreased growth in children. Pressure effects may include visual field defects, cranial nerve palsy, and headaches. Complications may include seizures or pituitary apoplexy.

The cause in most cases is unclear. Risk factors include family history and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1. Diagnosis is based on lab tests and medical imaging after ruling out other possible causes. They are classified into micro- (<10 mm diameter), macro- (10 to 40 mm diameter), and giant (>40 mm diameter).

Small prolactinomas without symptoms may be simply periodically monitored. Large or symptomatic cases may be treated with cabergoline and bromocriptine. Hormone replacement therapy may also be used. If this is not successful surgery or radiation therapy may be used. Outcomes for small prolactinomas are generally excellent, while that of larger lesions is mixed.

Prolactinomas affected about 2 per 10,000 people. They are three times more common in women than men. Onset is often around 30 years of age. It is the most common type of functioning pituitary tumor. Prolactinomas were first clearly described in the 1950s and 1960s.