USMLE/COMLEX - Step 2 - Prolactinoma

USMLE/COMLEX - Step 2 - Prolactinoma Prolactinoma is a type of pituitary adenoma, which is a benign tumor of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is a small gland located at the base of the brain that produces and releases hormones that control various bodily functions, including growth, reproduction, and metabolism. Irregular menstrual periods Infertility Galactorrhea Erectile dysfunction in men Decreased muscle mass Decreased facial and body hair growth in men Headaches Blurred vision or loss of peripheral vision Milky discharge from the breasts in non-pregnant women Enlarged breast tissue in men Decreased peripheral vision or loss of visual fields Infertility and decreased libido Osteoporosis Hypothyroidism Blood tests to measure the level of prolactin in the blood Imaging tests, MRI, and CT scans Visual field testing Hormone stimulation tests Treatment for prolactinoma may include: 1. Medications: dopamine agonists are the mainstay of treatment for prolactinoma and work by reducing prolactin production and shrinking the tumor. Examples include cabergoline and bromocriptine. 2. Surgery: in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the tumor if it is large, causing significant symptoms, or not responding to medication. 3. Radiation therapy: this may be used in rare cases when medication and surgery are ineffective or when the tumor is too large to be removed safely. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the tumor, the severity of symptoms, the age and general health of the patient, and the desire to preserve fertility.