Clinical profile and long term follow up of children and adolescents with prolactinomas

Diagnosis and management of pituitary adenomas in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Pituitary adenomas (PAs)-also now called pituitary neuroendocrine tumours or Pit-NETS-are rare in children and adolescents and exceptional below the age of 10. Most evidence-based high-quality data are derived from larger studies in adult patients.

AIMS

We will review recent knowledge on the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment modalities of the different types of pituitary adenomas diagnosed in children and adolescents, emphasizing the many reasons why these cases should be discussed within pituitary-specific multidisciplinary teams with experts from both paediatric and adult practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Paediatric PA presents multiple peculiarities that may challenge their adequate management. They are overall proportionally larger and more aggressive than in adults, with potential mass effects including hypopituitarism. Hormonal hypersecretion is frequent, resulting in clinical syndromes affecting normal growth and pubertal development. Prolactinomas represent the most frequent subtype of PA found during childhood, followed by adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and growth hormone (GH)-secreting adenomas, while clinically non-functioning adenomas are exceptionally diagnosed before the age of 16. The occurrence of a pituitary tumour in a young individual should also prompt genetic testing in each case, searching for either germline mutations in one of the known genes that may drive inherited/familial PA (such as the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 or MEN1 gene, or the aryl hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein or AIP gene), or for a mosaic activating mutation of GNAS as found in the McCune-Albright syndrome.

Consensus guideline for the diagnosis and management of pituitary adenomas in childhood and adolescence: Part 2, specific diseases

Pituitary adenomas are rare in children and young people under the age of 19 (hereafter referred to as CYP) but they pose some different diagnostic and management challenges in this age group than in adults. These rare neoplasms can disrupt maturational, visual, intellectual and developmental processes and, in CYP, they tend to have more occult presentation, aggressive behaviour and are more likely to have a genetic basis than in adults. Through standardized AGREE II methodology, literature review and Delphi consensus, a multidisciplinary expert group developed 74 pragmatic management recommendations aimed at optimizing care for CYP in the first-ever comprehensive consensus guideline to cover the care of CYP with pituitary adenoma. Part 2 of this consensus guideline details 57 recommendations for paediatric patients with prolactinomas, Cushing disease, growth hormone excess causing gigantism and acromegaly, clinically non-functioning adenomas, and the rare TSHomas. Compared with adult patients with pituitary adenomas, we highlight that, in the CYP group, there is a greater proportion of functioning tumours, including macroprolactinomas, greater likelihood of underlying genetic disease, more corticotrophinomas in boys aged under 10 years than in girls and difficulty of peri-pubertal diagnosis of growth hormone excess. Collaboration with pituitary specialists caring for adult patients, as part of commissioned and centralized multidisciplinary teams, is key for optimizing management, transition and lifelong care and facilitates the collection of health-related quality of survival outcomes of novel medical, surgical and radiotherapeutic treatments, which are currently largely missing.

Giant prolactinoma in children and adolescents: a single-center experience and systematic review

PURPOSE

Giant prolactinoma (GP) in childhood and adolescence is a rare entity with scarce literature. We aimed to describe clinical features, biochemistry, radiology, genetics, management, and outcome in pediatric (≤ 20 years) GP.

METHODS

Retrospective record review of 18 pediatric GP patients from our center and systematic review including these and 77 from the literature (total cohort: 95).

RESULTS

GP constituted 20% of our pediatric prolactinoma cohort. In the total cohort (age: 15.4 ± 3.5 years), the majority (77, 82.8%) were males. Mass effect symptoms (88.6%), and pubertal delay/arrest in males (82.1%) were frequent. Median basal prolactin was 8649 (3246-17,532) ng/ml and the maximum tumor dimension was 5.5 ± 1.5 cm. MEN1 and AIP mutations were noted in 7 (21.9%) and 6 (18.8%) patients, respectively. Males with central hypogonadism had baseline bi-testicular volume of 20.2 ± 8.4 cc, lower LH than FSH (-2.04 ± 0.9 vs. -0.7 ± 1.6 SDS, p = 0.0075), and mostly, normal inhibin B. Majority (49/76, 64.5%) received dopamine agonist (DA) as first-line treatment with additional therapy in 35% (17/49). DA monotherapy arm had less frequent central hypothyroidism (42.9% vs 87.1%, p = 0.002) and central adrenal insufficiency (7.1% vs 66.7%, p = 0.0003) than multimodal therapy. A smaller tumor dimension (4.7 vs. 5.7 cm, p = 0.04) was associated with normoprolactinemia on DA monotherapy and AIP mutations (33.3% vs. nil, p = 0.02) with multimodal therapy.

CONCLUSION

GP is characterized by male predominance with frequent delay/arrest of puberty (82%), but relative sparing of the FSH-inhibin B axis in boys. DA monotherapy may be preferred as the first-line therapy in pediatric GP.

Outcome of Dopamine Agonist Therapy Withdrawal in Children with Prolactinomas

BACKGROUND

Prolactinomas are rare in children and adolescents. As in adults, dopamine agonists (DAs) are the treatment of choice in the majority of patients. However, at what point children should be taken off of therapy and what the recurrence risk of hyperprolactinemia is following treatment withdrawal is not well described.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to systematically review our experience with DA treatment withdrawal in children and adolescents with prolactinomas.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients followed for prolactinomas during the last 12 years was conducted. Variables analyzed included age, gender, initial serum prolactin levels, tumor characteristics, cabergoline dose, and results of treatment withdrawal. Clinical characteristics of patients who met eligibility criteria for DA withdrawal were compared with those who did not. Patients who underwent surgery were excluded.

RESULTS

Of 47 patients identified, 42 were included in the study. Of those, DA withdrawal was attempted in 13 (31%) and was initially successful in 3 (21%). Patients who did not meet eligibility criteria for treatment withdrawal had higher baseline prolactin levels (p = 0.018) as well as larger (p = 0.03) and more invasive (p = 0.002) tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Less than half of our patients were eligible for DA treatment withdrawal and less than one-fourth achieved remission of hyperprolactinemia following cessation of therapy. This suggests that the overall recurrence rate of prolactinomas in pediatric patients may be higher than has been reported in adults.

Recent findings on hyperprolactinemia and its pathological implications: a literature review

The prolactin hormone (PRL) is often secreted by lactotrophic cells of the anterior pituitary and has been shown to play a role in various biological processes, including breast feeding and reproduction. The predominant form of this hormone is the 23 kDa form and acts through its receptor (PRLR) on the cell membrane. This receptor is a member of the superfamily of hematopoietic/cytokine receptors. PRL also has a 16 kDa subunit with anti-angiogenic, proapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects which is produced by the proteolytic breakdown of this hormone under oxidative stress. Although the common side effects of hyperprolactinemia are exerted on the reproductive system, new studies have shown that hyperprolactinemia has a wide variety of effects, including playing a role in the development of autoimmune diseases and increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, peripartum cardiomyopathy, and diabetes among others. The range of PRL functions is increasing with the discovery of multiple sites of PRL secretion as well as PRLR expression in various tissues. This review summarizes current knowledge of the biology of PRL and its receptor, as well as the role of PRL in human pathophysiology.

Are dopamine agonists still the first-choice treatment for prolactinoma in the era of endoscopy? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

For prolactinoma patients, dopamine agonists (DAs) are indicated as the first-line treatment and surgery is an adjunctive choice. However, with the development of surgical technique and equipment, the effect of surgery has improved. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of surgery versus DAs in patients with different types of prolactinomas.

Methods

A systematic search of literature using Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Clinical Trial databases was conducted until July 12, 2019. Prolactinoma patients treated with DAs (bromocriptine or cabergoline) or surgery (microscopic or endoscopic surgery) were included. Outcomes included the biochemical cure rate, recurrence rate, prolactin level, improvement rates of symptoms, and incidence rates of complications. A random-effects model was used to pool the extracted data. Qualitative comparisons were conducted instead of quantitative comparison.

Results

DAs were better than surgery in terms of the biochemical cure rate (0.78 versus 0.66), but surgery had a much lower recurrence rate (0.19 versus 0.57). Full advantages were not demonstrated in improvement rates of symptoms and incidence rates of complications with both treatment options. In microprolactinoma patients, the biochemical cure rate of endoscopic surgery was equal to the average cure rate of DAs (0.86 versus 0.86) and it surpassed the biochemical cure rate of bromocriptine (0.86 versus 0.76). In macroprolactinoma patients, endoscopic surgery was slightly higher than bromocriptine (0.66 versus 0.64) in terms of the biochemical cure rate.

Conclusion

For patients with clear indications or contraindications for surgery, choosing surgery or DAs accordingly is unequivocal. However, for patients with clinical equipoise, such as surgery, especially endoscopic surgery, in microprolactinoma and macroprolactinoma patients, we suggest that neurosurgeons and endocrinologists conduct high-quality clinical trials to address the clinical equipoise quantitatively.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41016-022-00277-1.

Management of prolactinomas in children and adolescents; which factors define the response to treatment?

PURPOSE

Prevalence, presentation and clinical outcome of prolactinomas vary in children and adults. In this study, we evaluated the clinical features and outcome of children and adolescents with prolactinoma to identify the differences from that of adults, and thus to establish the management strategies for this age group.

METHODS

Patients with prolactinoma diagnosed before 18 years of age from a single center in the last 20-years were included. Clinical and laboratory data, radiological findings and treatment outcome were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients (23 female; 82.1%) with prolactinoma were included. Median age at diagnosis was 15.2 years (12.6-17.7 years) in girls, 12.9 years (12.0-16.7 years) in boys. First line treatment was cabergoline in 82% of patients and normal prolactin level was achieved with maximum dose of 2 mg/week in 78%. Surgery was required in 28% of patients. Adenomas < 13.5 mm responded conventional doses of CAB. Adenomas > 30 mm were drug resistant or required surgery. Adenomas between 13.5 mm and 30 mm with invasion/extension were more likely to have drug resistance. CAB had to be continued following surgery in all patients. One macroprolactinoma had an increase in size which was accompanied with increasing prolactin level.

CONCLUSIONS

All microprolactinomas responded well to DA treatment. However, all adenomas larger than 30 mm was resistant to CAB or required surgery. Probability of drug resistance and requirement of second line therapy were higher in adenomas between 13.5 mm and 30 mm with invasion/extension. Doses over 2 mg/week of CAB in drug-resistant patients may not provide additional benefit. The frequency of follow-up MRI could be determined based on prolactin levels and emergence of new neurological symptoms.

Prolactinoma in childhood and adolescence-Tumour size at presentation predicts management strategy: Single centre series and a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To report the clinical presentation, management and outcomes of young patients with prolactinomas (<20 years) and conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PATIENTS AND DESIGN

Clinical, biochemical and radiological data (1996-2018) were collected from our centre. A systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature (1994-2019) on prolactinoma (age <20 years) were conducted. Both random and fixed effects meta-analysis were used to pool outcomes across studies. RESULTS 1 CASE SERIES: Twenty-two patients (14 females) were identified; median age at diagnosis 15.7 years (range 13-19); 12 patients (6 females) had a macroprolactinoma. Seven patients (macroprolactinoma-6) had associated pituitary hormone deficiencies at presentation. Five patients (4 males) underwent surgical resection due to poor response to cabergoline or apoplexy. Patients undergoing surgery had larger tumours (p < .02) and higher serum prolactin concentration (p < .005). All patients with macroprolactinoma >20 mm required surgical intervention. RESULTS 2 SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS: We selected 11 studies according to strict inclusion criteria describing 275 patients. Macroprolactinoma was more common in girls (78.7% [95% CI 70.5-85.9]) than boys and was more frequent than microprolactinoma (56.6% [95% CI 48.4-64.5]). In males, only 6/57 (10.5%) of tumours were microprolactinoma as compared to 102/198 (51.5%) microprolactinoma in females (risk difference -0.460; [95% CI -0.563 to -0.357]; p < .001). Surgery was first-line therapy in 18.9% patients, with another 15.4% requiring it as a second line (overall 31.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Macroprolactinoma, particularly if >20 mm, usually requires multimodal therapy including surgical intervention. While overall prolactinomas in <20 years age group are more common in females, the proportion of macroprolactinoma vs microprolactinoma is greater in males, particularly for large invasive tumours. Microprolactinoma is a rare diagnosis in adolescent males.

Premature pubarche as a first presentation of pituitary macroprolactinoma

Prolactinoma is a rare tumor of childhood. Clinical presentations of prolactinoma include amenorrhea, delayed puberty, and galactorrhea. For the first time, in this case, elevated prolactin levels were associated with unexpected premature pubarche. We describe an 8-year, 7-month-old boy with acne and gradual appearance of pubic hair, corresponding to tanner stage 2. Hormonal tests showed severe hyperprolactinemia (prolactin = 246.8 μg/L and pooled prolactin = 175 μg/L and macroprolactin = 5 μg/L) and mildly elevated level of dehdroepiandrostenedion sulfate (DHEAS) and testosterone. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings confirmed the presence of a pituitary macroprolactinoma, measuring 14 mm × 12 mm × 8 mm on the right side of the pituitary gland. Cabergoline therapy was commenced (0.5 mg/week) and after 3 months, no evidence of pubarche progression was observed. Prolactin level and tumor size markedly reduced. At the 9-month follow-up visit, a normal MRI was reported. This case highlights that even when facing premature pubarche, careful examination is mandatory, and if no obvious etiology is found for premature pubarche, clinicians should consider prolactinoma.

Sex Hormone Profile in Pubertal Boys With Gynecomastia and Pseudogynecomastia

CONTENT

Gynecomastia (defined by proliferation of glandular elements) and pseudogynecomastia (defined by adipose tissue) are frequent in pubertal boys. An association with sex hormones and the growth hormone axis has been discussed.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this work is to compare sex hormones, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) between boys with gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia (separation by ultrasound).

DESIGN

An observational study was performed.

SETTING

The setting of this study was an outpatient clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 124 pubertal boys (mean age 14 ± 2 years) with breast enlargement and 84 healthy boys (mean age 14 ± 2 years) without breast enlargement participated in this study.

INTERVENTIONS

No interventions were performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Measurements were taken for sex hormones (progesterone, estradiol [E2], estriol, estrone, androstendione, testosterone [T], dihydrotestosterone) measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, as well as gonadotropins, prolactin, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3.

RESULTS

Eighty-six boys suffered from gynecomastia and 38 from pseudogynecomastia. In boys with gynecomastia, the E2/T ratio (median 22, interquartile range [IQR] 8-75) was significantly (P < .05) higher compared to boys with pseudogynecomastia (median 12, IQR 5-21) or healthy controls without breast enlargement (median 18, IQR 6-44) even after adjustment for testes volume. T concentrations were significantly (P < .05) lower in boys with gynecomastia (median 1.8, IQR 0.7-4.2 nM/L) compared to boys with pseudogynecomastia (median 4.3, IQR 1.4-6.9 nM/L) or healthy controls without breast enlargement (median 3.1, IQR 0.6-7.6 nM/L). Boys with gynecomastia did not differ from boys with pseudogynecomastia according to other sex hormones, prolactin, IGF-1, or IGFBP-3 concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

True gynecomastia is characterized by a relative T deficiency to E2 concentrations in contrast to pseudogynecomastia.

Clinical, Hormonal, and Neuroradiological Characteristics and Therapeutic Outcomes of Prolactinomas in Children and Adolescents at a Single Center

Background/Purpose: A prolactinoma is the most common pituitary adenoma, but it is relatively rare in childhood and adolescence. There is only limited research about the clinical spectrum, treatment, and outcomes of prolactinomas in childhood and adolescence. In this single-center cohort study, we assessed the clinical, hormonal, and neuroradiological characteristics and therapeutic outcomes of children and adolescents with prolactinomas. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 25 patients with prolactinomas diagnosed before 19 years of age, who presented at Samsung Medical Center during a 15-year period (March 2005 to August 2019). Results: The median age at diagnosis was 16.9 (range 10.1-18.5) years, and 80% of the patients were female. The common clinical manifestations at diagnosis were galactorrhea (10/20, 50%) and amenorrhea (9/20, 45%) among females and visual field defects (3/5, 60%) and headaches (2/5, 40%) among males. In our cohort, macroadenomas accounted for 56% of cases, and the rate of overall responsiveness to dopamine agonists (DAs) was 56% (10/18). Male gender, the prolactin (PRL) level at diagnosis, and the presence of panhypopituitarism were positively correlated with maximum tumor diameter (r = 0.443, P = 0.026; r = 0.710, P < 0.001; and r = 0.623, P = 0.001, respectively). After the trans-sphenoidal approach (TSA), 53% (8/15) of patients showed normalization of the PRL level. Three patients, who underwent gamma knife surgery (GKS) owing to either resistance or intolerance to DAs or recurrence after the TSA, achieved a normal PRL level accompanied with marked tumor reduction and symptom remission. Conclusions: A macroprolactinoma is more prevalent than a microprolactinoma in children and adolescents than in adults. Male gender, increased PRL levels, and the presence of panhypopituitarism at diagnosis are closely related to macroprolactinomas in children and adolescents.

Where Have the Periods Gone? The Evaluation and Management of Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is a common cause of amenorrhea in adolescent girls. It is often seen in the setting of stress, weight loss, or excessive exercise. FHA is a diagnosis of exclusion. Patients with primary or secondary amenorrhea should be evaluated for other causes of amenorrhea before a diagnosis of FHA can be made. The evaluation typically consists of a thorough history and physical examination as well as endocrinological and radiological investigations. FHA, if prolonged, can have significant impacts on metabolic, bone, cardiovascular, mental, and reproductive health. Management often involves a multidisciplinary approach, with a focus on lifestyle modification. Depending on the severity, pharmacologic therapy may also be considered. The aim of this paper is to present a review on the pathophysiology, clinical findings, diagnosis, and management approaches of FHA in adolescent girls.

Start low, go slowly - mental abnormalities in young prolactinoma patients under cabergoline therapy

Background Prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas in childhood and adolescence are rare. First-line therapy consists of dopamine agonists (DAs) like cabergoline. Experience in treating prolactinomas in paediatric and adolescent patients is limited. Methods This study was a retrospective analysis of clinical data, laboratory data, radiological findings and medical treatment of paediatric and adolescent patients with prolactinomas between 2009 and 2018. Results Our cohort of nine patients had a median age at diagnosis of 13 years (range 5-17). Main presenting symptoms were weight gain, disorders of the pituitary-gonadal axis and headache. Treatment with cabergoline resulted in a marked reduction in prolactin concentration in all nine patients. Tumour mass reduction was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan in seven patients. Noteworthy is that cabergoline therapy triggered frequent adverse effects in a total of eight patients - seven of whom suffered from mental disorders, five of whom had neurological symptoms and five of whom had gastrointestinal problems. The adverse effects occurred at a median dose of only 0.5 mg/week (range 0.25-2.0). Most symptoms were alleviated after the cabergoline dose was lowered. Therapy discontinuation was not necessary in any patient. Conclusions Cabergoline effectively lowers prolactin levels and may reduce tumour mass in paediatric and adolescent patients with prolactinomas. Potential adverse effects may include mental disorders and behavioural problems even at low cabergoline doses. Low starting doses and careful individual dose adjustments are required to enable therapy adherence.

Giant Prolactinoma Causing Hydrocephalus and Intracranial Hypertension as First Manifestations of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1

Context: Overall, giant prolactinomas are rare tumors (4%), especially those larger than 60 mm (1%). Despite the predominance of macroadenoma documented in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)-related prolactinoma, only three giant prolactinoma cases were described so far (size > 40 mm and prolactin > 1,000 ng/mL). None of them was larger than 60 mm or presented hydrocephalus or intracranial hypertension (ICH) as initial manifestation of MEN1. Case Description: A 21-years-old man presented with ICH as the first clinical manifestation of MEN1. He harbored a MEN1 germline mutation but refused periodic vigilance after normal hormonal screening at age 14 years. During investigation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the skull showed an expansive sellar/parasellar lesion (75 × 44 × 36 mm) with moderate to severe supratentorial obstructive hydrocephalus and an extremely high serum prolactin (PRL) of 10,800 ng/mL, without combined hypersecretion of other pituitary hormones. He was diagnosed with giant prolactinoma, and cabergoline was initiated. The patient evolved with early improvement of clinical complaints for hydrocephalus and ICH and PRL reached normal values (11 ng/mL) in association with significant tumoral shrinkage after 18 months on cabergoline. After 2 months of cabergoline, cerebrospinal fluid leakage was diagnosed and corrective surgery was provided. The mean dose of cabergoline was 3 mg/week throughout treatment. Conclusion: We reported the first case with hydrocephalus and ICH as the initial clinical manifestation of a giant prolactinoma in MEN1. From our knowledge, this is the largest MEN1-related prolactinoma reported so far. Notably, all four MEN1-related giant prolactinomas cases reported were younger than 21 years strengthening the importance to routine MEN1 genetic testing for prolactinoma in this age group. Also, they all had initial effective response with dopamine agonist ensuring this drug as first-line treatment for MEN1-related giant prolactinoma. However, the scarce number of treated patients and progression of cabergoline resistance in two of them suggest strict surveillance.

Pediatric pituitary adenomas in Northeast Mexico. A follow-up study

PURPOSE

To review incidence, treatment and outcome of pediatric pituitary adenomas (PAs).

METHODS

A follow-up study patients with the age of ≤19 years old who were treated from 1995 to 2015 in Mexico.

RESULTS

Out of 1244 diagnosed PA, 43 patients were children (35 females, 8 males) with a mean age of 17.2 years. The majority were macroadenomas (70%) with prolactinomas (PRL) dominating (63%) followed by non-functioning adenomas (21%). In total, 40% were diagnosed as invasive. Growth hormone (GH) secreting adenomas, adrenocorticotropic hormone secreting and mixed GH-PRL secreting were rare. The treatment modalities were dopamine agonists and surgery. The average treatment time was 44 months with an average follow-up period of 104 months. Sixty-eight percent (27/40) of the patients had complete response after long time follow-up. Thirty-one percent did not respond to treatment whereof three patients died due to advanced disease and late intervention. The principal causes for treatment failure were treatment resistance, late intervention and poor patient compliance.

CONCLUSIONS

Sixty eight percent had complete treatment response without any sign of disease, while ~31% did not respond to treatment or did not comply to follow up/treatment. Optimized early diagnose, treatment methods with early intervention, long time follow-up and with better measures for patient compliance should improve outcomes.

Beneficial Effects of High Doses of Cabergoline in the Treatment of Giant Prolactinoma Resistant to Dopamine Agonists: A Case Report with a 21-Year Follow-Up

INTRODUCTION

Prolactinomas are pituitary tumors with a very low prevalence in childhood and adolescence compared to adulthood. This condition is preferentially treated with dopamine agonists. Resistance to these drugs is rare.

CASE REPORT

We describe the case of a boy diagnosed with macroadenoma at the age of 9 and followed up for 21 years. He did not fully respond to treatment with dopamine agonists. His initial prolactin level was 2,400 ng/mL (in males, normal values are <16.0 ng/mL) and never normalized. At the last assessment, his prolactin level was 21.5 ng/mL, recorded after 21 years of treatment with the dopamine agonist cabergoline at a dose as high as 4.5 mg per week. Although the prolactin level remained elevated throughout the follow-up period, the patient never presented a low testosterone level and had normal pubertal development. An MRI of the sella turcica showed that the tumor became progressively cystic and disappeared, but a normal pituitary gland was observed. The pituitary gland retained its normal functions despite a partially empty sella.

DISCUSSION

Long-term treatment with high doses of cabergoline may cause cystic degeneration of a prolactinoma considered to be resistant to this treatment, but we cannot rule out the possibility that this outcome represents the natural development of the tumor.

Clinical Features and Response to Treatment of Prolactinomas in Children and Adolescents: A Retrospective Single-Centre Analysis and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Paediatric prolactinomas are rare. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical features and outcome of paediatric patients with prolactinomas.

METHODS

In this single-centre retrospective analysis, clinical, biochemical, and radiological features of all paediatric patients with pituitary adenomas diagnosed between 2000 and 2016 were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among 21 patients with pituitary adenomas, 12 patients with prolactinomas (median age 14.2 years, range 11-16.6 years, 8 females, 4 males) were identified (7 macro- and 5 microprolactinomas). The most common clinical symptoms were headaches (67%) and pubertal delay (67%). All patients with macroprolactinomas with prolactin concentrations >10,000 mU/L had at least 1 pituitary hormone deficiency. Cabergoline as first-line treatment (n = 11, median follow-up of 37 months, range 12-89 months) induced normoprolactinemia (n = 8), reduced the mean tumour volume by 80%, and ameliorated headaches (p = 0.016) and pubertal delay (p = 0.031), whereas intermittent moderate side effects occurred in 55%.

CONCLUSION

Adolescents with headaches and pubertal delay should be investigated for prolactinomas. Treatment with cabergoline is well tolerated and effective in reducing clinical symptoms and prolactin concentrations was well as inducing tumour shrinkage. Further clinical prospective studies are needed to standardize paediatric treatment modalities.

Broad clinical spectrum and diverse outcomes of prolactinoma with pediatric onset: medication-resistant and recurrent cases

Prolactinoma is a benign tumor of the pituitary gland that rarely occurs in children and adolescents; thus, the clinical spectrum and long-term prognosis in these patients remain unknown. This study was performed to investigate the long-term outcomes of medical treatment and the prognostic factors for remission and relapse in children and adolescents with prolactinoma. Three male subjects and four female subjects between the ages of 7- and 17-years-old were included in this study. The mean initial serum prolactin level was 443 ± 251.8 ng/mL (range, 152-946 ng/mL). During the follow-up period (range, 0.6-20 years), a dopamine agonist was administered, and surgery or radiotherapy was performed in cases of resistance to medical treatment or relapse. Unlike female subjects with macroadenoma who often exhibit a good clinical course, two male subjects with early onset macroadenoma presented with visual disturbances. These subjects showed resistance to medical therapy and relapsed, eventually requiring surgical removal and radiotherapy; one of the subjects manifested a metastatic thrombus in the internal jugular vein. In conclusion, pediatric prolactinoma exhibits a broad clinical spectrum, a relatively high incidence of macroadenoma, resistance to medical therapy, and frequent tumor relapses. In addition, a poor prognosis appears to be correlated with male sex, age at disease onset, and histopathological characteristics.

Pediatric prolactinoma: initial presentation, treatment, and long-term prognosis

Prolactinoma is a rare pituitary adenoma secreting prolactin. Studies on diagnostics, treatment, and prognosis in pediatric prolactinoma patients are rare. We analyzed clinical presentation, response to treatment, and prognosis of 27 pediatric prolactinoma patients (10 m/17 f. based on patients' records. Tumors included 6 microadenomas (tumor volume: median 0.2 cm³, range 0.01-0.4 cm³; serum prolactin at diagnosis: median 101 ng/ml, range 33-177 ng/ml), 15 macroadenomas (volume: median 3.3 cm³, range 0.4-25.8 cm³; prolactin: median 890 ng/ml, range 87-8624), and 3 giant adenomas (volume: median 44.5 cm³, range 38.6-93.5 cm³; prolactin: median 4720 ng/ml, range 317-10,400); data for 3 patients were not available. Dopamine agonist treatment (n = 22) was safe and effective, leading to reductions in tumor size (p < 0.01) and prolactin levels (p < 0.01). Threat to vision was the indication for decompressing surgery in three of seven operated patients. No patient was irradiated. Long-term functional capacity was not impaired when compared with other sellar masses (n = 235).

CONCLUSION

In pediatric prolactinoma, diagnosis is based on hyperprolactinemia and imaging. Dopamine agonist treatment is effective and safe. Overall survival and functional capacity as a measure of quality of survival were not impaired, indicating an optimistic prognosis. Surgery should be considered only in emergency situations of threatened visual function, not presenting a fast response to dopamine agonist treatment. Severe side effects of medication and lack of efficacy should be considered as contraindications. What is Known: • In pediatric prolactinoma-a very rare pediatric neuroendocrinological disease-gender-related differences in terms of clinical presentation at initial diagnosis are known. • Due to the rareness of the disease, reports on long-term outcome and prognosis after childhood-onset prolactinoma based on prospective follow-up are not published. What is New: • Dopamine agonist treatment is efficient and safe for tumor volume reduction in pediatric prolactinoma and surgical interventions are recommended only for decompression of the optic chiasm in case of threat to vision. In case of inefficient response to medication, side effects or parental refuse, alternative therapeutic options should be considered. • Quality of life in terms of survival and functional capacity was not impaired in pediatric prolactinoma patients when compared with 235 long-term survivors of different sellar masses.

Prolactinoma through the female life cycle

Prolactinomas are the most common secretory pituitary adenoma. They typically occur in women in the 3rd-6th decade of life and rarely in the pediatric population or after menopause. Most women present with irregular menses and/or infertility. Dopamine (DA) agonists, used in their treatment, are safe during pregnancy, but in most cases are discontinued at conception with close monitoring for signs or symptoms of tumor growth. Breastfeeding is safe postpartum, provided there was no significant growth during pregnancy. Some women will experience normalization of prolactin levels postpartum. Menopause may also decrease prolactin levels and even those with macroprolactinomas may consider discontinuing their DA agonist with close follow-up. Prolactinomas may be associated with decreased quality of life scores in women, and play a role in bone health and cardiovascular risk factors. This review discusses the current literature and clinical understanding of prolactinomas throughout the entirety of the female life cycle.

Neurological Complications of Endocrine Disease

The endocrine system is a complex group of organs and glands that relates to multiple other organs and systems in the body with the ultimate goal of maintaining homeostasis. This complex network functions through hormones excreted by several glands and released in the blood, targeting different body tissues and modulating their function. Any primary disorders affecting the endocrine glands and altering the amount of hormones synthesized and released will lead to disruption in the functions of multiple organs. The central nervous system of a developing child is particularly sensitive to endocrine disorders. A variety of neurological manifestations have been described as features of several endocrine diseases in childhood. Their knowledge may contribute to an early diagnosis of a particular endocrine condition, especially when more typical features are not present yet. In this article, we discuss specific neurological manifestations found in various endocrine disorders in children.

Treatment-resistant pediatric giant prolactinoma and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1

Background

Pediatric pituitary adenomas are rare, accounting for <3 % of all childhood intracranial tumors, the majority of which are prolactinomas. Consequently, they are often misdiagnosed as other suprasellar masses such as craniopharyngiomas in this age group. Whilst guidelines exist for the treatment of adult prolactinomas, the management of childhood presentations of these benign tumors is less clear, particularly when dopamine agonist therapy fails. Given their rarity, childhood-onset pituitary adenomas are more likely to be associated with a variety of genetic syndromes, the commonest being multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1).

Case description

We present a case of an early-onset, treatment-resistant giant prolactinoma occurring in an 11-year-old peripubertal boy that was initially sensitive, but subsequently highly resistant to dopamine agonist therapy, ultimately requiring multiple surgical debulking procedures and proton beam irradiation. Our patient is now left with long-term tumor- and treatment-related neuroendocrine morbidities including blindness and panhypopituitarism. Only after multiple consultations and clinical data gained from 20-year-old medical records was a complex, intergenerationally consanguineous family history revealed, compatible with MEN-1, with a splice site mutation (c.784-9G > A) being eventually identified in intron 4 of the MEN1 gene, potentially explaining the difficulties in management of this tumor. Genetic counseling and screening has now been offered to the wider family.

Conclusions

This case emphasizes the need to consider pituitary adenomas in the differential diagnosis of all pediatric suprasellar tumors by careful endocrine assessment and measurement of at least a serum prolactin concentration. It also highlights the lack of evidence for the optimal management of pediatric drug-resistant prolactinomas. Finally, the case we describe demonstrates the importance of a detailed family history and the role of genetic testing for MEN1 and AIP mutations in all cases of pediatric pituitary adenoma.

Expression of estrogen receptor alpha is associated with prolactin pituitary tumor prognosis and supports the sex-related difference in tumor growth

CONTEXT

A sex difference in the progression of prolactin (PRL) tumors has been disputed for years.

OBJECTIVE

To compare tumor characteristics and postoperative clinical course between men and women, and correlate data with estrogen receptor alpha (ERα (ESR1)) expression status.

DESIGN, PATIENTS, AND METHODS

Eighty-nine patients (59 women and 30 men) operated on for a prolactinoma and followed for at least 5 years were selected. Tumors were classified into five grades according to their size, invasion, and proliferation characteristics. The ERα expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and a score (0-12) calculated as the product of the percentage of positive nuclei and the staining intensity.

RESULTS

We found a significant preponderance of high-grade tumors among men and a lower surgical cure rate in men (23%) than in women (71%). Patients resistant to medical treatment were mainly men (7/8), six of whom showed tumor progression despite postoperative medical treatment, which led to multiple therapies and eventually death in three. The median score for ERα expression was 1 in men (range, 0-8) and 8 in women (range, 0-12) (P<0.0001). The expression of ERα was inversely correlated with tumor size (r=-0.59; P<0.0001) and proliferative activity. All dopamine agonist-resistant tumors and all grade 2b (invasive and proliferative) tumors (from ten men and four women) were characterized by low ERα expression.

CONCLUSIONS

PRL tumors in men are characterized by lower ERα expression, which is related to higher tumor grades, resistance to treatment, and an overall worse prognosis.

Prolactinomas in children under 14. Clinical presentation and long-term follow-up

PURPOSE

Pediatric prolactinomas are rare, especially in children under 14 years of age. In this study, we evaluated the clinical presentation and microsurgical outcome of prolactinomas in prepubertal children.

METHODS

Nine patients with prolactinomas who had undergone surgical removal of the tumor before the age of 14 years were included in this retrospective study. Data on their clinical presentation, medications, physical and laboratory evaluations, radiological findings, and long-time follow-up were obtained from their medical records.

RESULTS

The main presenting symptom in the four female patients was galactorrhea (n = 4, 100%), whereas the five male patients most commonly presented with headache (n = 4, 80%) and growth retardation (n = 3, 60%). Six (66.6%) of the patients who had undergone transsphenoidal surgery were medication-free postoperatively. In three (33.3%) patients with giant adenomas, complete resection of the tumor was not achieved. One (11.1%) patient received radiotherapy after failed surgical and medical treatment. Postoperatively, electrolyte disturbances occurred in five (55.6%) patients, diabetes insipidus in two (22.2%), and thyroid dysfunction in two (22.2%). These complications resolved spontaneously. During follow-up, growth and puberty were usually normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor compressive symptoms and/or gonadal and growth arrest may be the primary clinical presentations of pediatric prolactinoma. Patients who are not candidates for dopamine agonist therapy are best treated surgically, based on the low mortality and high cure rates. Hypopituitarism is a rare complication and may resolve spontaneously. Following successful treatment of a prolactinoma, growth and puberty in these children are normal.

Paediatric pituitary adenomas: a decade of change

Pituitary adenomas, although rare in the paediatric age range and mostly benign, represent very challenging disorders for diagnosis and management. The recent identification of genetic alterations in young individuals with pituitary adenomas has broadened the scope of molecular investigations and contributed to the understanding of mechanisms of tumorigenesis. Recent identification of causative mutations of genes such as GNAS, PRKAR1A, MEN1 and AIP has introduced the concept of molecular screening of young apparently healthy family members. Population-based studies have reported a significantly higher number of affected subjects and genetic variations than expected. Radiological techniques have advanced, yet many microadenomas remain undetectable on scanning. However, experience with transsphenoidal and endoscopic pituitary surgery has led to higher rates of cure. Prolactinomas, corticotroph and somatotroph adenomas remain the most prevalent, with each diagnosis presenting its own challenges. As paediatric pituitary adenomas occur very infrequently within the paediatric age range, paediatric endocrine units cannot provide expert management in isolation. Consequently, close co-operation with adult endocrinology colleagues with experience of pituitary disease is strongly recommended.

Macroprolactinoma: a diagnostic and therapeutic update

Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary adenomas. Macroprolactinomas are the name used for these tumors when their size is ≥ 1 cm. These tumors commonly cause symptoms due to the excessive production of prolactin as well as complaints caused by tumor mass and compression of neural adjacent structures. Clinical diagnosis and assessment of macroprolactinoma are based on the measurement of serum prolactin concentrations and the morphological evaluation of the pituitary gland by magnetic resonance imaging. Dopamine agonists are the first-line treatment modality, with cabergoline being preferred to bromocriptine, because of its better tolerance and feasibility of administration. Cabergoline therapy has been reported to achieve normalization of prolactin levels and gonadal function and reduction of tumor volume in >50% of patients with macroprolactinoma. Resistance or intolerance to dopamine agonists are the main indications for transsphenoidal adenomectomy in patients with macroprolactinoma. External radiation therapy has been used in patients with poor response to medical and surgical procedures. Clinically significant tumor growth may occur during pregnancy in women with macroprolactinomas, especially if they have not received prior surgical or radiation therapy. Visual fields should be assessed periodically during pregnancy and therapy with dopamine agonists is indicated if symptomatic tumor growth occurs. Cystic and giant prolactinomas as well as the rare cases of malignant prolactinomas have special peculiarities and entail a therapeutic challenge.

Pituitary tumors in childhood

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review focuses on recently published literature on pituitary tumors in children with special focus on craniopharyngioma and prolactinoma. Although most pituitary masses are benign neoplasms, they are associated with high morbidity and mortality related to their proximity to vital neurologic structures including the optic chiasm, hypophysis and hypothalamus, resulting in disruption of pituitary hormone secretion.

RECENT FINDINGS

The role of Wingless/β-beta catenin signaling and aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein mutations in pituitary tumor formation has been recognized. There is general agreement on optimal treatment of prolactinomas, although duration of medical therapy in children deserves more specific attention. Advances in imaging, medical, surgical and radiotherapy techniques have greatly increased survival rates for all pituitary tumors, but high recurrence rates after attempted complete resection and high progression rates after incomplete resection of craniopharyngioma remain troublesome. Long-term morbidity and late mortality of all pituitary tumors have become better appreciated with recent focus placed on severe obesity. A trend toward a more multidisciplinary approach for craniopharyngioma, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy, particularly when tumor burden involves the hypothalamus, continues.

SUMMARY

A vast amount of literature has been recently published, focusing on the management and long-term sequelae of all pituitary tumors in children. Craniopharyngioma remains the most challenging mass arising within sellar and parasellar areas, and optimal treatment continues to be hotly debated. Recognizing the rarity of pediatric pituitary tumors, the field would greatly benefit from more prospective multicenter trials, as well as from standardization of the assessment of preoperative function and post-treatment outcomes.

Tratamento de macroprolactinoma com cabergolina em adolescente

OBJETIVO: Relatar um caso de macroprolactinoma diagnosticado em adolescente e tratado com cabergolina. DESCRIÇÃO DO CASO: Paciente do sexo feminino, 15 anos, iniciou quadro clínico aos dez anos, com cefaleia, obesidade e não havia apresentado menarca ao diagnóstico. A dosagem sérica inicial de prolactina foi de 2492ng/mL (valor de referência: 19-25ng/mL). A ressonância nuclear magnética de crânio evidenciou formação expansiva selar e suprasselar compatível com macroadenoma hipofisário sem compressão do quiasma óptico. Seis meses após o início do tratamento com cabergolina, houve queda significativa dos níveis séricos de prolactina para 87,7ng/mL, com redução de 76% no tamanho da lesão e melhora sintomática. COMENTÁRIOS: A ocorrência dos prolactinomas é rara na infância e na adolescência, mas o seu comportamento pode ser mais agressivo. O diagnóstico precoce e o manejo adequado do caso são importantes para um bom prognóstico.

Clinical course of hyperprolactinemia in children and adolescents: a review of 21 cases

OBJECTIVE

Hyperprolactinemia may be due to various etiological factors and may present with different signs and symptoms. It is relatively less frequent in childhood than in adulthood. The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the clinical course and outcome of hyperprolactinemia in pediatric patients.

METHODS

We investigated the records of 21 patients with hyperprolactinemia who attended a tertiary hospital.

RESULTS

Menstrual problems, galactorrhea , and headache were the most common presenting symptoms. Hyperprolactinemia was due to microadenoma in 10, macroadenoma in 7, and was drug-induced in 4 patients. Bromocriptine and cabergoline were equally effective in lowering serum prolactin levels. Surgical treatment in children with macroprolactinoma was not curative and dopamine agonist therapy was required postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

In the presence of any clinical symptom or sign suggestive of suppression of the pituitary-gonadal axis, hyperprolactinemia should not be forgotten as a probable diagnosis. Medical therapy seems effective in microadenoma. Surgical therapy may not be successful in macroadenoma and recurrence is frequent.

Nonneoplastic enlargement of the pituitary gland in children

Primary neoplasms of the pituitary gland are uncommon in children. Physiological enlargement of the gland, however, is universal and can sometimes be confused with a tumor. Due to widespread availability of MR imaging, the number of children referred to pediatric neurosurgeons with an enlarged pituitary associated with nonspecific symptoms, most commonly headache, is increasing. In this review, the authors illustrate two common causes of pituitary enlargement in children, namely physiological hypertrophy of puberty, more commonly seen in females, and secondary hyperplasia caused by hypothyroidism. The importance of early and accurate diagnosis, without recourse to extensive endocrine investigations or inappropriate surgery, is underscored.

Aggressive prolactinoma in a child related to germline mutation in the ARYL hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein (AIP) gene

The objective of this study was to describe a familial screening for AIP mutations in the context of aggressive prolactinoma in childhood. A 12-year-old boy, presented headaches and bilateral hemianopsia. He had adequate height and weight for his age (50th percentile), Tanner stage G1 P1. His bone age was 10 years. Prolactin was 10.560 ng/mL (3-25), FSH and LH were undetectable, IGF-1, TSH, Free T4, ACTH, and cortisol were within normal ranges. MRI showed a pituitary macroadenoma, 5.3 X 4.0 X 3.5 cm with compression of the optic chiasm, bilateral cavernous sinus invasion, encasement of carotids, and extension to clivus. Surgical debulking was performed. Resistance to cabergoline was characterized and he was submitted to two surgeries and radiotherapy. Immunohistochemical evaluation included prolactin, ACTH, GH, FSH, LH,AIP, c-erb B2, Ki-67, and p53. Genomic DNA was isolated from the index case and 48 relatives, PCR and sequencing were performed.A germline A195V mutation in AIP was identified in the index case and in five asymptomatic relatives. Germline mutations in the AIP gene may be involved in the predisposition to pituitary adenoma formation, as cause or co-factor in pathogenesis of aggressive tumors in young patients.