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Pituitary incidentalomas

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Abstract

Introduction

Incidentally discovered pituitary adenomas are more and more commonly encountered in endocrinology and neurosurgical practices. Often they present as difficult problems in management strategies. This review summarizes the latest evidence and opinions in a variety of settings in which incidental pituitary tumors are discovered, including subclinical pituitary tumor apoplexy.

Methods

A systematic literature review was accomplished using a spectrum of contemporary sources for information regarding pituitary incidentalomas.

Results

Up to date findings regarding epidemiology, definition of pituitary incidentaloma, patient evaluation, diagnostic studies, and management are presented.

Conclusions

Current experience from a multidisciplinary pituitary center is presented, with indications for treatment and longitudinal care of these challenging patients.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    George A. Scangas

  2. Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    Edward R. Laws Jr.

  3. Pituitary/Neuroendocrine Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    Edward R. Laws Jr.

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  1. George A. Scangas
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  2. Edward R. Laws Jr.
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Correspondence to Edward R. Laws Jr..

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Scangas, G.A., Laws, E.R. Pituitary incidentalomas. Pituitary 17, 486–491 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11102-013-0517-x

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