Is prolactin-secreting pituitary tumor a serious disease?

The severity of prolactinoma varies from person to person. In most cases, it is a benign tumor, but it may cause endocrine disorders and requires prompt treatment. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and radiotherapy, depending on the size of the tumor and the severity of the symptoms.

1. Causes of prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors

The occurrence of prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors is related to many factors. Genetic factors may increase the risk of disease, and people with a similar medical history in the family need to be vigilant. Environmental factors such as long-term stress and bad living habits may also induce tumors. In terms of physiological factors, women's hormone levels fluctuate greatly during pregnancy or lactation, which can easily lead to abnormal prolactin secretion. Trauma or head injury may also affect pituitary function. Pathologically, prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors are usually benign, but if not treated in time, they may compress surrounding tissues, affect vision or cause other endocrine problems.

2. Symptoms of prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors

Typical symptoms of prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors include menstrual disorders, infertility, and breast galactorrhea in women, and sexual dysfunction and breast development in men. If the tumor compresses the optic nerve, vision loss or visual field loss may occur. Some patients also experience symptoms such as headaches and fatigue. Once the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible and confirm the diagnosis through blood tests and imaging tests such as MRI.

3. Treatment of prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors

Drug therapy is the first choice. Commonly used drugs include bromocriptine, cabergoline and quinagolide. These drugs can effectively inhibit prolactin secretion and reduce tumor size. If drug therapy is ineffective or the tumor is large, surgical treatment should be considered, such as transsphenoidal surgery or craniotomy. The specific method is determined by the doctor according to the condition. Radiotherapy is suitable for patients with residual tumors after surgery or who are unable to undergo surgery. Common methods include gamma knife and proton therapy.

Although most prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors are benign, they may cause serious endocrine problems and require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Through medication, surgery or radiotherapy, most patients can effectively control the disease and return to normal life. If related symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid delaying treatment.