What are the symptoms of pituitary tumor invading the cavernous sinus

Pituitary tumors invading the cavernous sinus may cause symptoms such as decreased vision, ophthalmoplegia and headaches. In severe cases, medical treatment should be sought promptly. Treatment methods include drug therapy, surgical resection and radiotherapy, and the specific plan needs to be formulated according to the condition.

The symptoms of pituitary tumor invading the cavernous sinus are mainly related to the compression of peripheral nerves and blood vessels by the tumor. 1. Decreased vision: The tumor compresses the optic nerve or optic chiasm, which may cause visual field defects or blurred vision, or even blindness in severe cases. 2. Ophthalmoplegia: The oculomotor nerve, trochlear nerve and abducens nerve pass through the cavernous sinus. Tumor invasion may cause eye movement disorders, manifested as diplopia or strabismus. 3. Headache: Tumor compression or irritation of the dura mater may cause persistent or paroxysmal headaches, usually located in the forehead or around the eye sockets. 4. Other symptoms: Some patients may experience facial numbness, exophthalmos, or endocrine dysfunction, such as menstrual disorders, sexual dysfunction, etc.

Treatment methods need to be tailored to the size, location, and symptoms of the tumor. 1. Drug therapy: For secretory pituitary tumors, dopamine receptor agonists such as cabergoline or somatostatin analogs such as octreotide can be used to inhibit hormone secretion and reduce the size of the tumor. 2. Surgical resection: Minimally invasive surgery via the transsphenoidal approach is a common method and is suitable for patients with larger tumors or those compressing the optic nerve. Surgery can effectively relieve compression and improve symptoms. 3. Radiotherapy: For residual or recurrent tumors after surgery, stereotactic radiosurgery such as gamma knife or conventional radiotherapy can be used to control tumor growth.

Pituitary tumor invasion of the cavernous sinus is a disease that requires timely intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving prognosis. Patients should undergo regular imaging examinations and endocrine function assessments and follow appropriate treatment plans. At the same time, maintaining good living habits and avoiding excessive fatigue and mood swings will help control the disease. If there are abnormal symptoms, seek medical attention in a timely manner to avoid delaying treatment.