Symptoms of pituitary tumor invading the cavernous sinus

Invasion of the cavernous sinus by a pituitary tumor can cause symptoms such as decreased vision, headache, and ophthalmoplegia, and requires diagnosis through imaging studies. Treatment includes surgery, medication, and radiotherapy.

1. Causes of pituitary tumor invasion of cavernous sinus

Pituitary tumors are a common intracranial tumor. When the tumor grows and invades the cavernous sinus, it will compress the surrounding nerves and blood vessels, causing a series of symptoms. The cavernous sinus is located at the base of the skull, and important nerves and blood vessels pass through it, including the oculomotor nerve, trochlear nerve, abducens nerve, and internal carotid artery. Tumor compression of these structures can cause corresponding functional disorders. Genetic factors, environmental factors such as radiation exposure, physiological factors such as abnormal hormone secretion, and trauma or pathological changes such as inflammation may all contribute to the occurrence and development of pituitary tumors.

2. Symptoms of pituitary tumor invading the cavernous sinus

Decreased vision is a common symptom, and patients may experience visual field loss or blurred vision due to tumor compression of the optic nerve or optic chiasm. Headaches are usually located in the forehead or around the orbits and may be related to tumor compression of the dura mater or increased intracranial pressure. Ophthalmoplegia manifests as limited eye movement or double vision and is the result of compression of the oculomotor, trochlear, or abducens nerves. Other symptoms may include facial numbness, ptosis, or pupillary abnormalities.

3. Diagnosis of pituitary tumor invasion into the cavernous sinus

The diagnosis of pituitary tumor invasion of the cavernous sinus mainly relies on imaging examinations. MRI of the head is the preferred method, which can clearly show the size, location and relationship of the tumor with surrounding structures. CT scan can assist in the assessment of bone destruction. Endocrine function tests can help determine whether the tumor secretes hormones, such as prolactinoma or somatotropinoma. Ophthalmological examinations can evaluate vision, visual field and eye muscle function, providing a basis for diagnosis.

4. Treatment of pituitary tumors invading the cavernous sinus

Surgical treatment is the main method, including transsphenoidal surgery and craniotomy. Transsphenoidal surgery is less invasive and has a quick recovery, and is suitable for most cases; craniotomy is used for patients with larger tumors or special locations. Drug therapy is mainly used to control hormone-secreting tumors, such as dopamine receptor agonists such as bromocriptine for prolactinomas and somatostatin analogs such as octreotide for somatotropinomas. Radiotherapy is suitable for patients with residual tumors after surgery or who are unable to undergo surgery, and includes conventional radiotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery such as gamma knife.

5. Life management and prevention

Patients need to have regular checkups during treatment to monitor tumor recurrence and hormone levels. The diet should be balanced, avoiding high-sugar and high-fat foods, and consuming a moderate amount of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Moderate exercise helps to strengthen the body, and low-intensity activities such as walking and yoga are recommended. Psychological support is equally important, and patients can relieve anxiety through psychological counseling or joining patient groups.

Pituitary tumor invasion of the cavernous sinus is a disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can effectively improve symptoms and improve quality of life. Patients should actively cooperate with doctors for treatment and pay attention to health management in daily life to reduce the risk of recurrence.