THERAPY OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Surgery in microprolactinomas: effectiveness and risks based on contemporary literature

Role of Medical and Surgical Treatment in Management of the Patients With Prolactinoma: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend dopamine agonists (DA) as the primary therapeutic approach for prolactinomas; however, emerging evidence suggests that surgical intervention can also yield favorable outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To comprehensively evaluate prolactinoma patients undergoing surgical and medical treatments at our pituitary center.

METHODS

Retrospective review of mMedical records from prolactinoma patients treated between 2015 and 2022 was performedwere retrospectively reviewed. The study focused on treatment outcomes and remission rates while investigating factors influencing the success of both treatment modalities in achieving remission.

RESULTS

A total of 301 prolactinoma patients were included, of whom 199 were women. Among them, 235 were managed medically, while 66 underwent surgical intervention. The overall remission rates of patients treated with medical and surgery were similar at the final examination (Respectively respectively 82.9% and 81.8%, p=0.114). Factors associated with remission in both treatment modalities included female sex, low initial prolactin levels, small adenoma size, and absence of cavernous invasion. Compared to DA treatment, Ssurgical treatment demonstrated a higher rate of drug-free remission compared to DA treatment for microadenomas, and macroadenomas without cavernous invasion. In cases with cavernous invasion, standalone surgical treatment yielded a low rate of drug-free remission (7.7%); however, when combined with DA therapy post-surgery, remission rates increased to 66.7%.

CONCLUSION

Medical treatment with DAs remains the preferred option for macroadenomas with cavernous sinus invasion, and giant adenomas, with surgery reserved for selected cases to address complications. Conversely, surgery emerges as the most effective modality for achieving remission in patients with microadenomas, and macroadenomas confined to the sella. The recommendation of DAs as first-line therapy for all patients has been withdrawn in the current guidelines, and individual treatment approaches based on tumor characteristics are emphasized. Our results support this approach.

Identifying prognostic predictors for postoperative pituitary neuroendocrine tumour recurrence: an integrated clinical, radiological, and immunohistochemistry assessment

OBJECTIVE

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) are the second most common type of intracranial tumour. Several studies have explored the prognostic factors for PitNETs. However, prognostic factors for postoperative PitNET recurrence remain not fully understood. This study aimed to explore potential prognostic factors for PitNET recurrence, such as surrounding tissue invasion and the extent of surgical resection in patients with postoperative PitNETs.

METHODS

We included 106 patients who underwent PitNET surgery between 2013 and 2018, dividing them into two groups: those with recurrence and those without recurrence. Tumours were classified based on demographics, neuroradiological, and immunohistological characteristics. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine factors predicting recurrence. Kaplan-Meier plots and log-rank tests were used to analyse each independent factor based on the cumulative 5-year recurrence rate.

RESULTS

During the 5-year follow-up period, 29.2% of the patients (n = 31) had disease recurrence. Univariate analysis showed that predictors of recurrence included cavernous and sphenoid sinus invasions, optic chiasm compression, larger tumour volume, giant adenoma >4 cm, and gross total resection (GTR). Multivariate analysis showed that lactotroph tumour type, sphenoid sinus invasion, and GTR were independent predictors. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed significant differences in the 5-year recurrence rate among the three independent predictors, with significantly lower recurrence rate in patients with lactotroph tumours and GTR, and a significantly higher recurrence risk in patients with sphenoid sinus invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

Lactotroph tumour type, sphenoid sinus invasion, and GTR are independent predictors of postoperative PitNET recurrence. This study provides insights into the factors affecting postoperative PitNET recurrence.

Preoperative treatment with dopamine agonist therapy influences surgical outcome in prolactinoma: a retrospective single-center on 159 patients

INTRODUCTION

Prolactinoma account to the most common pituitary adenomas and current therapy regime constitutes of dopamine agonist therapy (DA) and surgery in selected cases [17]. Due to tumor fibrosis induced by previous DA therapy, surgical removal can be challenging though. Therefore, this study investigates how preoperative DA usage influences perioperative treatment and surgical outcome in prolactinoma and aims to ascertain whether a specific subgroup of prolactinoma patients could derive greater benefit from exclusive surgical intervention.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed n = 159 surgically treated and histologically confirmed prolactinomas in the sella region from 2013-2022 in our institution. Clinical, radiological and surgical features were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Out of total of 159 prolactinoma patients, 83.6% received previous treatment with DA followed by surgery, while only 16.4% received exclusive surgery. Both groups presented similar initial tumor volumes (1.9cm3 vs. 1.5cm3, p = 0.59) and equal preoperative prolactin levels (PRL) (199.7 µg/l vs. 191.0 µg/l, p = 0.44). Surgical procedures took significantly longer when patients received prior DA treatment (79 min. vs. 70 min., p = 0.0479). Six months after surgery, pretreated patients revealed significantly higher PRL compared to non-treated (107 g/l vs. 8.64 µg/, p = 0.0009). Additionally, untreated microprolactinoma presented a remission of 100%, whereas pretreated exhibited a remission rate of 88.75%.

CONCLUSION

The current study demonstrates that prior DA treatment is associated with significantly longer surgeries, higher recurrence rates and lower rates of normalization of PRL levels after surgery, particularly in microprolactinomas and support the latest recommendations of the Pituitary Society's Consensus Statement 2023, which favors the option of surgery alone as first-line therapy for microprolactinomas.

Medical treatment of functional pituitary adenomas, trials and tribulations

CONTEXT

Functioning pituitary adenomas (FPAs) include most frequently prolactinomas, somatotroph or corticotroph adenomas, while thyrotroph and gonadotroph adenomas are very rare. Despite their benign histological nature (aggressive tumors are rare and malignant ones exceptional), FPAs could cause significant morbidity and increased mortality due to complications associated with hormonal excess syndromes and/or mass effect leading to compression of adjacent structures. This mini review will focus on the increasing role of medical therapy in the multimodal treatment, which also includes transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) and radiotherapy.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Most patients with prolactinomas are treated only with medications, but surgery could be considered for some patients in a specialized pituitary center, if higher chances of cure. Dopamine agonists, especially cabergoline, are efficient in reducing tumor size and normalizing prolactin. TSS is the first-line treatment for all other FPAs, but most patients require complex adjuvant treatment, including a combination of therapeutic approaches. Medical therapy is the cornerstone of treatment in all patients after unsuccessful surgery or when surgery cannot be offered and includes somatostatin receptor ligands and dopamine agonists (almost all FPAs), growth hormone receptor antagonists (acromegaly), adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors and glucocorticoid receptor blockers (Cushing's disease). Novel medical treatments, especially for acromegaly and Cushing's disease are under research.

CONCLUSIONS

An enlarged panel of effective drugs available with increased knowledge of predictive factors for response and/or adverse effects will enhance the possibility to offer a more individualized treatment. This would not only improve disease control and prognosis, but also quality of life.

A pharmacoeconomic analysis from Italian guidelines for the management of prolactinomas

Background

Prolactinoma, the most common pituitary adenoma, is usually treated with dopamine agonist (DA) therapy like cabergoline. Surgery is second-line therapy, and radiotherapy is used if surgical treatment fails or in relapsing macroprolactinoma.

Objective

This study aimed to provide economic evidence for the management of prolactinoma in Italy, using a cost-of-illness and cost-utility analysis that considered various treatment options, including cabergoline, bromocriptine, temozolomide, radiation therapy, and surgical strategies.

Methods

The researchers conducted a systematic literature review for each research question on scientific databases and surveyed a panel of experts for each therapeutic procedure's specific drivers that contributed to its total cost.

Results

The average cost of the first year of treatment was €2,558.91 and €3,287.40 for subjects with microprolactinoma and macroprolactinoma, respectively. Follow-up costs from the second to the fifth year after initial treatment were €798.13 and €1,084.59 per year in both groups. Cabergoline had an adequate cost-utility profile, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of €3,201.15 compared to bromocriptine, based on a willingness-to-pay of €40,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) in the reference economy. Endoscopic surgery was more cost-effective than cabergoline, with an ICER of €44,846.64. Considering a willingness-to-pay of €40,000/QALY, the baseline findings show cabergoline to have high cost utility and endoscopic surgery just a tad above that.

Conclusions

Due to the favorable cost-utility profile and safety of surgical treatment, pituitary surgery should be considered more frequently as the initial therapeutic approach. This management choice could lead to better outcomes and an appropriate allocation of healthcare resources.

The role of surgical management for prolactin-secreting tumors in the era of dopaminergic agonists: An international multicenter report

OBJECTIVE

First-line prolactin-secreting tumor (PST) management typically involves treatment with dopamine agonists and the role of surgery remains to be further explored. We examined the international experience of 12 neurosurgical centers to assess the patient characteristics, safety profile, and effectiveness of surgery for PST management.

METHODS

Patients surgically treated for PST from January 2017 through December 2020 were evaluated for surgical characteristics, outcomes, and safety.

RESULTS

Among 272 patients identified (65.1% female), the mean age was 38.0 ± 14.3 years. Overall, 54.4% of PST were macroadenomas. Minor complications were seen in 39.3% of patients and major complications were in 4.4%. The most common major complications were epistaxis and worsened vision. Most minor complications involved electrolyte/sodium dysregulation. At 3-6 months, local control on imaging was achieved in 94.8% of cases and residual/recurrent tumor was seen in 19.3%. Reoperations were required for 2.9% of cases. On multivariate analysis, previous surgery was significantly predictive of intraoperative complications (6.14 OR, p < 0.01) and major complications (14.12 OR, p < 0.01). Previous pharmacotherapy (0.27 OR, p = 0.02) and cavernous sinus invasion (0.19 OR, p = 0.03) were significantly protective against early endocrinological cure. Knosp classification was highly predictive of residual tumor or PST recurrence on 6-month follow-up imaging (4.60 OR, p < 0.01). There was noted institutional variation in clinical factors and outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Our results evaluate a modern, multicenter, global series of PST. These data can serve as a benchmark to compare with DA therapy and other surgical series. Further study and longer term outcomes could provide insight into how patients benefit from surgical treatment.

Prolactinomas Resistant to Dopamine Agonists: Pathophysiology and Treatment

Prolactinomas are the most common functional pituitary tumors, accounting for 40% of all pituitary adenomas. Medical treatment with dopamine agonists (DA), mainly cabergoline, is considered the primary therapy for these patients. Prolactin normalization is achieved in 80-90% of prolactinomas treated with cabergoline. Patients resistant to the standard dose can escalate the dose of cabergoline up to the maximum tolerated dose. The expression of dopamine (D2) receptors and dopamine affinity is decreased in aggressive and resistant prolactinomas. Patients with aggressive and DA-resistant adenomas or with rare PRL-secreting carcinomas can be treated off-label with temozolomide (TMZ), a DNA alkylating agent. TMZ is effective in 40-50% of treated lactotroph tumors showing at least a partial response. However, patients tend to escape from the effect of TMZ after a limited time of response. Other therapeutic options include aromatase inhibitors, the somatostatin receptor ligand pasireotide, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), immune-checkpoint inhibitors, tyrosine-kinase inhibitors, or everolimus, the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor. These experimental treatments were effective in some patients carrying refractory prolactinomas showing usually partial tumor control. However, the number of treated patients with any of these new therapeutic options is very limited and treatment results are inconsistent, thus additional experience with more patients is required.

Impulse Control Disorders in Patients with Pituitary Tumors Treated with Dopamine Agonists: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The increased prevalence of Impulse Control Disorders (ICDs) in dopamine agonist (DA) treated patients with Parkinson's disease is well described. Despite the frequent use of DAs in the management of pituitary tumors, the relationship between DAs and prevalence of ICDs in patients with pituitary tumours is unclear.

AIMS

To establish the prevalence of ICDs in patients with prolactinoma or acromegaly and determine whether prevalence differs in those on DAs to those treated without.

METHODS

Systematic review of the literature (registered a priori) reporting prevalence of ICDs in patients with prolactinoma or acromegaly (conducted June 2023). A narrative synthesis describing prevalence of ICDs according to assessment method was performed. Prevalence comparisons between patients with prolactinoma or acromegaly treated with DAs, to patients treated without, were summarised.

RESULTS

Studies were largely retrospective, observational and heterogenous, with few patients with prolactinoma and acromegaly treated without DA. Prevalence of ICDs varied between 0-60% in patients with prolactinoma, and from 5-23% in studies with at least five patients with acromegaly. In most studies comparing DA exposed to non-DA exposed cases, DA use was not associated with ICDs.

CONCLUSIONS

Reported prevalence of ICDs in patients with prolactinoma and acromegaly varies considerably. Given ICDs were reported to be highly prevalent in some studies, clinicians should be mindful of these potentially serious disorders. ICD screening tools validated for use in patients with pituitary tumors combined with prospective studies including appropriate controls, are necessary to accurately establish prevalence of ICDs and true impact of DAs in their development.

Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Resection for Prolactinoma: A Retrospective Multicenter Case-series

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) for prolactinoma is reserved for dopamine agonist (DA) resistance, intolerance, or apoplexy. High remission (overall 67%, microprolactinoma up to 90%), low recurrence (5-20%) rates highlighted that surgery might be first-line treatment.

AIMS

To report on outcomes of ETSS in a cohort of prolactinomas.

METHODS

Multicenter retrospective cohort of 137 prolactinoma patients (age 38.2 ± 13.7 years; 61.3% female, median follow-up 28.0 [15.0-55.5] months) operated between 2010-2019 with histopathological confirmation.

RESULTS

Median preoperative prolactin levels were 166 (98-837 µg/L; males 996 [159-2145 µg/L] vs. females 129 [84-223 µg/L], p <0.001). 56 (40.9%) microprolactinomas, 69 (50.4%) macroprolactinomas, and 7 (5.1%) giant prolactinomas were included, whereas no adenoma was detected in 5 (3.6%) patients. Males had larger tumors (macroprolactinomas: 38, 71.7%) vs. 31 (36.9%), p <0.001; giant prolactinomas: 7 (13.2%) vs. 0 (0.0%), (p <0.001). Prolactinomas were graded as KNOSP-3 in 15 (11.5%), and KNOSP-4 in 20 (15.3%) patients. Primary indication was DA intolerance (59, 43.1%); males 14 (26.4%) vs. females 45 (53.6%), p = 0.006. Long-term remission (i.e., DA-free prolactin level <1xULN) was achieved in 87 (63.5%) patients, being higher in intended complete resection (69/92 [75.0%]), and lower in males (25 [47.2%] vs. 62 females [73.8%], p = 0.002). Transient DI (n = 29, 21.2%) was the most frequent complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite high proportions of macroprolactinoma and KNOSP 3-4, long-term remission rates were 63.5% overall, and 83.3% in microprolactinoma patients. Males had less favorable remission rate compared to females. These findings highlight that ETSS may be a safe and efficacious treatment to manage prolactinoma.

Diagnosis and management of prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas: a Pituitary Society international Consensus Statement

This Consensus Statement from an international, multidisciplinary workshop sponsored by the Pituitary Society offers evidence-based graded consensus recommendations and key summary points for clinical practice on the diagnosis and management of prolactinomas. Epidemiology and pathogenesis, clinical presentation of disordered pituitary hormone secretion, assessment of hyperprolactinaemia and biochemical evaluation, optimal use of imaging strategies and disease-related complications are addressed. In-depth discussions present the latest evidence on treatment of prolactinoma, including efficacy, adverse effects and options for withdrawal of dopamine agonist therapy, as well as indications for surgery, preoperative medical therapy and radiation therapy. Management of prolactinoma in special situations is discussed, including cystic lesions, mixed growth hormone-secreting and prolactin-secreting adenomas and giant and aggressive prolactinomas. Furthermore, considerations for pregnancy and fertility are outlined, as well as management of prolactinomas in children and adolescents, patients with an underlying psychiatric disorder, postmenopausal women, transgender individuals and patients with chronic kidney disease. The workshop concluded that, although treatment resistance is rare, there is a need for additional therapeutic options to address clinical challenges in treating these patients and a need to facilitate international registries to enable risk stratification and optimization of therapeutic strategies.

Surgical Treatment of Prolactinomas: Potential Role as a First-Line Treatment Modality

PURPOSE

Treatment with dopamine agonists (DAs) has been the first-line standard treatment for prolactinoma, and surgery has been reserved for drug intolerance and resistance for several decades. We evaluated whether surgery plays a primary role in prolactinoma management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of 210 prolactinoma patients who had received surgical treatment at our institution. We analyzed the treatment outcomes according to tumor extent, sex, and preoperative DA medication.

RESULTS

Overall hormonal remission was achieved in 164 patients (78.1%), and complete removal was achieved in 194 patients (92.4%). When the tumors were completely removed, the remission rate increased to 84.5%. Anterior pituitary function was normalized or improved in 94.6% of patients, whereas only 4.1% of patients showed worsening of hormone control. Hormonal remission was higher in patients who had not received DA preoperatively than in those who had received preoperative DA treatment. Smaller tumor size (<1 cm), no invasion into the cavernous sinus, and female sex were predictors of good surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Although DAs remain the first-line standard treatment for prolactinomas, surgery can be an excellent option and should be considered as an alternative primary treatment modality when patients are predicted to achieve a good surgical outcome.

Surgery as first-line treatment for prolactinoma? Discussion of the literature and results of a consecutive series of surgically treated patients

Initial treatment for prolactinoma is usually conservative with dopamine agonists. However, the duration of treatment is often lifelong and can be associated with significant side effects. Surgical outcomes are usually favorable and treatment complications low, raising the question whether surgical therapy should be included earlier in the treatment of prolactinoma. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of surgical resection of prolactinomas at our institution, to compare it with other published surgical and conservative series and to discuss the role of surgery in modern prolactinoma therapy. The authors reviewed a database of single-center consecutively operated prolactinoma cases and analyzed the extent of resection (EOR), endocrinological and neurological outcomes, and complications. Thirty patients were analyzed. Mean patient age was 37.2 ± 15.5 years (range 16-76) and consisted of 17 (56.7%) females and 13 (43.3%) males. Twenty-one patients (70%) failed medical therapy, the main reasons being intolerable side effects in 11 cases (52.4%) and insufficient response in 10 cases (47.6%). Nine patients (30%) received no medical treatment prior to surgery, of which five (55.6%) were operated because of pituitary apoplexy, two (22.2%) because of acute visual deterioration and two (22.2%) refused medical treatment and opted for surgery as first-line treatment. Of the 30 operated tumors, 56.7% (n = 17) were microadenomas, 30% (n = 9) were macroadenomas (≥ 10 mm), and 13.3% (n = 4) were giant adenomas (≥ 40 mm). GTR was achieved in 75% (n = 21) of cases. The overall remission rate was 63.3%. MRI showed a residual tumor in seven patients (25%), typically with invasive growth. Postoperative CSF leaks did not occur. Mean follow-up was 34.9 ± 60.3 months (range 0-246 months). Endocrine remission was defined as a morning fasting basal PRL level of 22.3 < ng/mL and measured at the last available follow-up. Postoperative Prolactine levels were missing in three patients. Our analysis describes a highly selected sample with a disproportionate number of larger, invasive tumors and emergency cases. Nevertheless, the results are satisfactory and comparable with other published series. The consistently good results of transphenoidal surgery, especially for microprolactinomas, have led to a greater acceptance of surgery in the treatment of prolactinomas in recent years. The timing of surgery in each individual case must be determined by a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcome.

Single-cell sequencing of PIT1-positive pituitary adenoma highlights the pro-tumour microenvironment mediated by IFN-γ-induced tumour-associated fibroblasts remodelling

BACKGROUND

PIT1-positive pituitary adenoma (PIT1-PA) is one of the most important lineages of pituitary adenoma (PA), which causes systematic endocrine disorders and a worse prognosis. Tumour-associated fibroblast (TAF) is a crucial stroma cell type in the tumour microenvironment (TME). However, cellular and functional heterogeneity of TAF and immune cells in PIT1-PA have not been fully investigated.

METHODS

By single-cell RNA sequencing of four PIT1-PAs and further analyses, we characterised the molecular and functional profiles of 28 different cell subtypes.

RESULTS

PA stem cells in PIT1/SF1-positve PA were in a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal state, and differentiated along the PIT1- and SF- dependent branches. C1Q was overwhelmingly expressed in tumour-associated macrophages, indicating its pro-tumoral functionality. PIT1-PA progression was characterised by lower cell-cell communication strength and higher cell adhesion-associated signals, indicating the immunosuppressive but pro-invasive microenvironment. IFN-γ signal repressed functional remodelling of myofibroblastic TAF (mTAF) towards inflammatory TAF/antigen-presenting TAF. IFN-γ inhibited mTAF phenotypes and N-cadherin expression through STAT3 signal axis. CDH2 knockdown in TAFs abrogated their pro-tumour function in PAs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study builds up a cellular landscape of PIT1-PA TME and highlights anti-tumour function of IFN-γ mediated TAF remodelling, which benefits clinical treatments and drug development.

Refractory lactotroph adenomas

A small subset of lactotroph adenomas is resistant to dopamine agonists (DA) and can also demonstrate aggressive or even malignant behavior. The implicated mechanisms are not clearly defined. Management can be challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. In DA resistant prolactinomas, switching to another DA could be the first option to consider. Further strategies include surgery and radiotherapy used alone or in combination. In cases of aggressive or malignant prolactinomas, temozolomide could be offered. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been also recently proposed as an alternative approach. The place of other treatments (e.g., metformin, selective estrogen modulators, somatostatin analogues, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, inhibitors of mammalian target of rapamycin and peptide radio-receptor therapy) remains to be carefully assessed.

The Role of Aromatase Inhibitors in Male Prolactinoma

BACKGROUND

dopamine agonists are the recommended treatment for male prolactinomas, but some patients may develop dopamine-agonist-resistant hyperprolactinemia, leading to persistent hypogonadism that requires treatment with testosterone. However, testosterone replacement therapy may be associated with a decrease in the efficacy of dopamine agonists due to the aromatization of testosterone to estradiol, which can stimulate the proliferation and hyperplasia of lactotroph cells in the pituitary, inducing resistance to dopamine agonists.

OBJECTIVE

this paper systematically reviewed the role of aromatase inhibitors for men with prolactinoma and dopamine-agonist-resistant or persistent hypogonadism following treatment.

METHOD

we performed a systematic review of all studies (according to PRISMA guidelines), assessing the role of aromatase inhibitors, including anastrozole and letrozole, for male prolactinoma. An English-language search for relevant studies was conducted on PubMed from its inception to 1 December 2022. The reference lists of the relevant studies were also reviewed.

RESULTS

our systematic review identified six articles (nine patients), including five case reports and a single case series, on the use of aromatase inhibitors for male prolactinomas. Reducing estrogen levels with an aromatase inhibitor improved sensitivity to dopamine agonists, as the addition of anastrozole or letrozole improves the control of prolactin levels and may lead to the shrinkage of tumors.

CONCLUSION

aromatase inhibitors are of potential value to patients with dopamine-agonist-resistant prolactinoma, or when hypogonadism persists while using high-dose dopamine agonists.

Prolactinomas in adolescent and elderly patients-A comparative long-term analysis

Objectives

Prolactinomas represent the most common type of secreting pituitary adenomas, yet are rarely encountered in adolescent-onset (AO; i.e. <18 years) or elderly-onset (EO; i.e. ≥65 years) cohorts. As a result, it is not clear whether long-term strategies should be focused differently at both age extremes when comparing their therapeutic outcomes. We aimed at investigating long-term endocrinological outcomes, looking for differences between the two cohorts and evaluating the dependence on continued dopamine agonist (DA) therapy.

Methods

Retrospective cross-sectional comparative study analyzing prolactinoma patients with a follow-up of ≥4 years. Clinical, radiological and biochemical characteristics were assessed at diagnosis and last follow-up. Longitudinal endocrinological outcomes between groups of extreme ages (i.e. AO and EO) and middle age (i.e. ≥18 years to 65 years) were compared. Independent risk factors for long-term dependence on DAs were calculated.

Results

Follow-up at ≥4 years was recorded for 108 prolactinoma patients; 10 patients with AO and 10 patients with EO. Compared to AO patients, EO patients were predominantly men (p = 0.003), and presented with significantly higher prolactin (PRL) levels (p = 0.05) and higher body mass index (p = 0.03). We noted a significant positive correlation between patients' PRL values and their age (r = 0.5, p = 0.03) or BMI (r = 0.6, p = 0.03). After a median follow-up of 115 months, remission was noted in 87 (83%) patients; 9 (90%) in AO patients, and 7 (70%) in EO patients (p = 0.58). Continuation of DAs was required in 4 patients (40%) with AO and 7 patients (70%) with EO (p = 0.37). Patients with elderly-onset were an independent predictor of long-term dependence on DAs (HR 2.8, 95% CI 1.1-7.2, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Long-term control of hyperprolactinemia and hypogonadism does not differ between members of the AO and EO cohorts, and can be attained by the majority of patients. However, adjuvant DAs are often required, independent of the age of onset. Considering the clinical significance of persistent DA therapy for the control of hyperprolactinemia in many patients at both extremes of age, long-term monitoring may become recommended, in particular in patients with elderly-onset.

Endoscopic Transnasal Approach for Microprolactinomas with Experience of 105 Cases in a Single Center: Paradigmal Shift for Conventional Medical Therapy

OBJECTIVE

The classically recommended first-line therapy for microprolactinomas is medical therapy. In the presence of drug resistance and intolerance after the use of dopamine agonists or when the patients prefer surgery instead of medication, surgical treatment is considered as second-line treatment. The high hormonal remission and low complication rates after surgery for microprolactinomas suggest that the surgical outcome of endoscopic surgeries may be better than medical therapy in well-selected patients. This study reports a large series of patients with microprolactinoma treated by endoscopic transnasal approach and evaluates the efficiency of surgical treatment.

METHODS

Our study is a retrospective cohort analysis of patients with microprolactinoma operated on by an endoscopic transnasal approach between August 1997 and February 2022 by an experienced pituitary surgeon in a single tertiary center. Inclusion criteria for microprolactinoma were based on increased prolactin levels, microadenoma (<10 mm in diameter) on pituitary magnetic resonance imaging, and histopathologically verified lactotroph adenoma.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 74.90 months (range, 6-207). The postoperative day 1 remission rate was 85.7% and the long-term remission rate was 74.3%. The long-term remission rates of the patients in the preference group were significantly higher than those of the patients in the resistant or intolerance group (P = 0.002). Patients who used dopamine agonists for more than 3 years had a lower remission rate compared with patients who used dopamine agonists for a shorter period or who did not use it (P = 0.01). The surgical complication rate was 4.76%.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our findings, endoscopic transnasal surgery performed by an experienced neurosurgeon in well-selected patients with microprolactinoma can be offered with cure rates superior to medical therapy and may be an alternative first-line treatment option to dopamine agonists.

Surgical Management of Giant Prolactinomas: A Descriptive Study

Introduction

Giant prolactinoma (GP) is a rare pituitary lactotropic cell tumor larger than 4 cm in its widest dimension, and is less likely than a smaller prolactinoma to achieve prolactin normalization on dopamine agonist (DA) monotherapy. There is a paucity of data on the circumstances and outcomes of second-line management of GP with surgery. Herein, our institution's experience with the surgical management of GPs is described.

Methods

A single-center retrospective analysis was conducted of patients who underwent surgery for giant prolactinoma from 2003 to 2018. A chart review was conducted for demographic data, clinical features, laboratory and radiographic findings, operative and pathology reports, perioperative management, and clinical outcomes in follow-up. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results

Of 79 prolactinoma cases, 8 patients had GP with a median age of 38 years (range 20-53), 75% (6/8) were male, with a median largest tumor dimension of 6 cm (range 4.6-7.7), and a median prolactin level of 2,500 μg/L (range 100->13,000). Six patients had transsphenoidal surgery for dopamine agonist (DA) resistance or intolerance. Two patients had a craniotomy for a missed diagnosis; one was due to the hook effect. No tumor resections were complete by either surgical approach; all had persistent hyperprolactinemia requiring postoperative DA therapy, and two patients had an additional craniotomy procedure for further tumor debulking. There was no recovery of pituitary axes and postoperative deficits were common. Remission as defined by prolactin normalization occurred in 63% (5/8) at a median time of 36 months (range 14-63 months) on DA therapy after surgery with a follow-up of 3-13 years.

Conclusions

GPs infrequently require surgical resection, which is generally incomplete and requires adjuvant therapy. Given the rarity of surgery for GPs, multi-institutional or registry studies would yield clearer guidance on optimal management.

Surgical Technique and Efficacy Analysis of Extra-pseudocapsular Transnasal Transsphenoidal Surgery for Pituitary Microprolactinoma

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the role of transsphenoidal surgery in the treatment of pituitary microprolactinoma.

METHODS

The clinical data of 107 prolactinoma cases treated by extra-pseudocapsular transnasal transsphenoidal surgery (ETTS) for different indications in our department since 2011 was retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The most common indication was the ineffectiveness of oral medication (41.1%), followed by the personal willingness of the patient (35.5%), and 20.6% of the patients were young women with clear tumor boundaries. The pseudocapsule was not observed in 63 cases (58.9%), incomplete pseudocapsule was observed in 26 cases (24.3%), and complete pseudocapsule in 18 cases (16.8%). A total of 97 patients (90.7%) obtained 1-year post-operation remission. According to the relative location of the adenoma and pituitary gland on the MRI scan, 46 patients were classified into a central type, 59 a lateral type, and 2 a supra-pituitary type. Two patients developed hypogonadism, one patient developed hypocortisolism, and one patient developed post-operative hypothyroidism. Two patients were administrated with hormone replacement treatment, and the treatment was stopped within one week. There was no permanent hypopituitarism. Further investigation demonstrated that the adenoma types could affect the remission rates of hyperprolactinemia and gross total resection rate in microprolactinoma.

CONCLUSION

ETTS was an effective treatment for pituitary microprolactinomas. This could be the first choice for patients who presented enclosed adenoma on the MRI and were potentially curable in a preoperative evaluation. Maximal safe removal of the adenoma by ETTS with the aim to increase the sensitivity of the drugs was also recommended for patients with invasive dopamine agonist resistant prolactinomas and patients with difficulty in childbirth.

Surgery as a first-line option for prolactinomas

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of prolactinomas with dopamine agonists has been the established first-line treatment option for many years, with surgery reserved for refractory cases or medication intolerance. This approach may not be the best option in many cases.

AREAS COVERED

Review of the epidemiology, biology, and treatment options available for prolactinomas, including best available data on outcomes, costs, and morbidities for each therapy. These data are then used to propose a 'surgery-first' treatment approach for a subset of prolactinomas as an alternative to primary medical management.

EXPERT OPINION

Based on the available data, there is a strong rationale that transsphenoidal surgery should be considered a first-line treatment option for both micro- and macro-prolactinomas that do not demonstrate high grade cavernous sinus invasion on MRI imaging, with dopamine agonists administered as a secondary therapy for tumors not in remission following surgery, and for giant tumors. This 'surgery-first' approach assumes the availability of skilled and experienced pituitary surgeons to ensure optimal outcomes. This approach should result in high cure rates and reduced DA requirements for patients not cured from initial surgery. Further, it will reduce medical costs over a patient's lifetime and the chronic morbidities associated with protracted dopamine agonist usage.

Treatment of Prolactinoma

Prolactinomas are the commonest form of pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET), representing approximately half of such tumors. Dopamine agonists (DAs) have traditionally been the primary treatment for the majority of prolactinomas, with surgery considered the second line. The aim of this review is to examine the historical and modern management of prolactinomas, including medical therapy with DAs, transsphenoidal surgery, and multimodality therapy for the treatment of aggressive prolactinomas and metastatic PitNETs, with an emphasis on the efficacy, safety, and future directions of current therapeutic modalities. DAs have been the mainstay of prolactinoma management since the 1970s, initially with bromocriptine and more recently with cabergoline. Cabergoline normalizes prolactin in up to 85% of patients and causes tumor shrinkage in up to 80%. Primary surgical resection of microprolactinomas and enclosed macroprolactinomas performed by experienced pituitary neurosurgeons have similar remission rates to cabergoline. Aggressive prolactinomas and metastatic PitNETS should receive multimodality therapy including high dose cabergoline, surgery, radiation therapy (preferably using stereotactic radiosurgery where suitable), and temozolomide. DAs remain a reliable mode of therapy for most prolactinomas but results from transsphenoidal surgery in expert hands have improved considerably over the last one to two decades. Surgery should be strongly considered as primary therapy, particularly in the setting of microprolactinomas, non-invasive macroprolactinomas, or prior to attempting pregnancy, and has an important role in the management of DA resistant and aggressive prolactinomas.

Implementation of functional imaging using 11C-methionine PET-CT co-registered with MRI for advanced surgical planning and decision making in prolactinoma surgery

PURPOSE

To report the first experience of our multidisciplinary team with functional imaging using ¹¹C-methionine positron emission tomography-computed tomography (¹¹C-methionine PET-CT) co-registered with MRI (Met-PET/MRI^CR) in clinical decision making and surgical planning of patients with difficult to treat prolactinoma.

METHODS

In eighteen patients with prolactinoma, referred to our tertiary referral centre because of intolerance or resistance for dopamine agonists (DA), Met-PET/MRI^CR was used to aid decision-making regarding therapy.

RESULTS

Met-PET/MRI^CR was positive in 94% of the patients. MRI and Met-PET/MRI^CR findings were completely concordant in five patients, partially concordant in nine patients, and non-concordant in four patients. In five patients Met-PET/MRI^CR identified lesion(s) that were retrospectively also visible on MRI. Met-PET/MRI^CR was false negative in one patient, with a cystic adenoma on conventional MRI. Thirteen patients underwent transsphenoidal surgery, with nine achieving full biochemical remission, two clinical improvement and near normalized prolactin levels, and one patient clinical improvement with significant tumour reduction. Hence, nearly all patients (94%) were considered to have a positive outcome. Permanent complication rate was low. Three patients continued DA, two patients have a wait and scan policy.

CONCLUSION

Met-PET/MRI^CR can provide additional information to guide multidisciplinary preoperative and intraoperative decision making in selected cases of prolactinoma. This approach resulted in a high remission rate with a low rate of complications in our expert centre.

Extra-Pseudocapsular Transsphenoidal Surgery for Microprolactinoma in Women

A recall for histological pseudocapsule (PS) and reappraisal of transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) as a viable alternative to dopamine agonists in the treatment algorithm of prolactinomas are getting vibrant. We hope to investigate the effectiveness and risks of extra-pseudocapsular transsphenoidal surgery (EPTSS) for young women with microprolactinoma, and to look into the factors that influenced remission and recurrence, and thus to figure out the possible indication shift for primary TSS. We proposed a new classification method of microprolactinoma based on the relationship between tumor and pituitary position, which can be divided into hypo-pituitary, para-pituitary and supra-pituitary groups. We retrospectively analyzed 133 patients of women (<50 yr) with microprolactinoma (≤10 mm) who underwent EPTSS in a tertiary center. PS were identified in 113 (84.96%) microadenomas intraoperatively. The long-term surgical cure rate was 88.2%, and the comprehensive remission rate was 95.8% in total. There was no severe or permanent complication, and the surgical morbidity rate was 4.5%. The recurrence rate with over 5 years of follow-up was 9.2%, and a lot lower for the tumors in the complete PS group (0) and hypo-pituitary group (2.1%). Use of the extra-pseudocapsule dissection in microprolactinoma resulted in a good chance of increasing the surgical remission without increasing the risk of CSF leakage or endocrine deficits. First-line EPTSS may offer a greater opportunity of long-term cure for young female patients with microprolactinoma of hypo-pituitary located and Knosp grade 0-II.

Pediatric pituitary adenomas are more aggressive, more likely to be hormone producing and are more difficult to cure than adult pituitary adenomas: case series and systematic literature review

PURPOSE

Pediatric pituitary adenomas (pPAs) are uncommon. Thus, their presentation and outcomes after treatment are less well-understood than those of pituitary adenomas in adulthood (aPAs).

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted for all patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (EETS) for pPA at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine (NYP/WCM) from 2005-2020. Eleven patients were identified, and information pertaining to age, sex, adenoma characteristics, procedural details, and outcomes was reviewed. A systematic review of the literature was also performed to compare outcomes of EETS versus microscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (METS) for pPA.

RESULTS

From 2005-2020, 11 patients underwent EETS for pPA at NYP/WCM. Mean age at operation was 14.9 ± 2.7 years, and 5 patients (45.5%) were male. 10 adenomas (90.9%) were hormone-producing. Of the functional adenomas, 8 (80.0%) were PRL-secreting and 2 (20.0%) were GH-secreting. Maximum adenoma diameter (MAD) ranged from 1.2-5.1 cm, with a median of 1.55 cm. Cavernous sinus invasion (CSI) occurred in 2 patients with macroprolactinoma. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 10 (90.9%). Biochemical remission occurred in 5/10 (50.0%). Post-operative complications were documented in 8 cases (72.7%) and included diabetes insipidus, hypopituitarism, sinusitis, weight gain, cerebrospinal fluid leak, meningitis, and hydrocephalus. Systematic literature review of 105 microscopic and 175 endoscopic cases revealed high frequency of hormone-producing tumors (83.6%) and similar rates of GTR (82.4% vs 85.1%) and biochemical cure (75.8% vs 64.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

pPAs are more likely to be hormone producing and may be more aggressive and difficult to cure than aPAs. EETS is an effective treatment, although complication rates may be higher than in adult populations.

Italian Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AME) and International Chapter of Clinical Endocrinology (ICCE). Position statement for clinical practice: prolactin-secreting tumors

Prolactinomas are the most frequent pituitary adenomas. Prolactinoma may occur in different clinical settings and always require an individually tailored approach. This is the reason why a panel of Italian neuroendocrine experts was charged with the task to provide indications for the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that can be easily applied in different contexts. The document provides 15 recommendations for diagnosis and 54 recommendations for treatment, issued according to the GRADE system. The level of agreement among panel members was formally evaluated by RAND-UCLA methodology. In the last century, prolactinomas represented the paradigm of pituitary tumors for which the development of highly effective drugs obtained the best results, allowing to avoid neurosurgery in most cases. The impressive improvement of neurosurgical endoscopic techniques allows a far better definition of the tumoral tissue during surgery and the remission of endocrine symptoms in many patients with pituitary tumors. Consequently, this refinement of neurosurgery is changing the therapeutic strategy in prolactinomas, allowing the definitive cure of some patients with permanent discontinuation of medical therapy.

Dopamine agonist therapy for prolactinomas: do we need to rethink the place of surgery in prolactinoma management?

The current treatment paradigm for prolactinomas involves dopamine agonist (DA) therapy as the first-line treatment, with surgical resection reserved for cases where there is DA failure due to resistance or intolerance. This review highlights how DA therapy can be optimised to overcome its increasingly recognised pitfalls, whilst also addressing the potential for expanding the use of surgery in the management of prolactinomas. The first part of the review discusses the limitations of DA therapy, namely: DA resistance; common DA side effects; and the rare but serious DA-induced risks of cardiac valvulopathy, impulse control disorders, psychosis, CSF rhinorrhoea and tumour fibrosis. The second part of the review explores the role of surgery in prolactinoma management with reference to its current second-line position and recent calls for surgery to be considered as an alternative first-line treatment alongside DA therapy. Randomised trials comparing medical vs surgical therapy for prolactinomas are currently underway. Pending these results, a low surgical threshold approach is herein proposed, whereby DA therapy remains the default treatment for prolactinomas unless there are specific triggers to consider surgery, including concern regarding DA side effects or risks in vulnerable patients, persistent and bothersome DA side effects, emergence of any serious risks of DA therapy, expected need for long-term DA therapy, as well as the traditional indications for surgery. This approach should optimise the use of DA therapy for those who will most benefit from it, whilst instituting surgery early in others in order to minimise the cumulative burden of prolonged DA therapy.

Anastrozole as add-on therapy for cabergoline-resistant prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas: real-life experience in male patients

INTRODUCTION

Prolactin-secreting adenoma (PRLoma) can present as large and invasive neoplasm, with increased markers of cellular proliferation. First-line approach is Dopamine Agonists (DAs) treatment; however, DA-resistance has been reported, especially in male patients. Estrogens induce lactotroph cell replication and PRL secretion: the use of anti-estrogen treatment in patients with PRLoma have been described in few cases. We reported our experience regarding treatment with the aromatase inhibitor anastrozole (ANA) as add-on therapy for male patients with DA resistant PRLoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We describe four male patients (26, 38, 29 and 19 years old at diagnosis), with PRLoma (median diameter 26 mm, PRL 7730 μg/L). They were resistant to cabergoline (CAB, > 2 mg/week) in terms of PRL secretion and tumor size reduction. ANA 1 mg/day was added to the maximum tolerated dose of CAB for at least 1 year. Magnetic Resonance was performed at baseline, after 6 months of CAB + ANA combination and every 12 months afterward.

RESULTS

PRL levels decreased in all patients after CAB + ANA (mean - 70%, range - 44/- 97%), achieving a normalization of PRL levels in one case. Tumor size decreased in all cases (mean - 47%, range - 24.5/- 68%). No severe adverse effects have been reported, a moderate weight gain has been observed in two cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of an aromatase inhibitor (ANA) to the dopamine agonist therapy improved the control of prolactin levels and induced tumour regression.

First-line surgery in prolactinomas: lessons from a long-term follow-up study in a tertiary referral center

CONTEXT

Although consensus guidelines recommend dopamine agonists (DAs) as the first-line approach in prolactinomas, some patients may opt instead for upfront surgery, with the goal of minimizing the need for continuation of DAs over the long term. While this approach can be recommended in selected patients with a microprolactinoma, the indication for upfront surgery in macroprolactinomas remains controversial, with limited long-term data in large cohorts. We aimed at elucidating whether first-line surgery is equally safe and effective for patients with micro- or macroprolactinomas not extending beyond the median carotid line (i.e., Knosp grade ≤ 1).

METHODOLOGY

Retrospective study of patients with prolactinomas Knosp grade ≤ 1 treated with upfront surgery. The primary endpoint was patients' dependence on DAs at last follow-up. The secondary endpoint was postoperative complications. Independent risk factors for long-term dependence on DAs were analyzed.

RESULTS

A microadenoma was noted in 45 patients (52%) and a macroadenoma in 41 (48%), with 17 (20%) harboring a Knosp grade 1 prolactinoma. Median follow-up was 80 months. First-line surgery resulted in long-term remission in 31 patients (72%) with a microprolactinoma and in 18 patients (45%) with a macroprolactinoma (p = 0.02). DA therapy was ultimately required in 11 patients (24%) with microadenomas vs. 20 (49%) with macroadenomas (p = 0.03). As for the latter, DA was required in 13 patients (76%) with Knosp grade 1 macroadenomas vs. 7 patients (29%) with Knosp grade 0 macroadenomas (p = 0.004). There was no mortality, and morbidity was minimal. Knosp grade 1 prolactinomas (OR 7.3, 95% CI 1.4-37.7, p = 0.02) but not adenoma size (i.e., macroprolactinomas) were an independent predictor of long-term dependence on DAs.

CONCLUSIONS

First-line surgery in patients with microprolactinomas or macroprolactinomas Knosp grade 0 resulted in a good chance of non-dependency on DA therapy. However, in patients with prolactinomas Knosp grade 1, first-line surgery cannot be recommended, as adjuvant DA therapy after surgery is required in the majority of them over the long term.

Surgery is a safe, effective first-line treatment modality for noninvasive prolactinomas

PURPOSE

Dopamine agonists (DAs) have long been the recommended first-line treatment for prolactinoma. Given the remarkable developments in surgical techniques, however, surgery is on the rise. We compared the treatment outcomes of patients with noninvasive prolactinomas receiving two different initial treatments (DAs and transsphenoidal surgery).

METHODS

We reviewed 745 patients with hyperprolactinemia or pituitary tumors treated from 2004 to 2020 at Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital and identified 310 with prolactinomas. After selecting patients who had pituitary tumors with Knosp grade 0 to 1 with follow-up period over 1 year, 70 patients (29 who underwent surgery and 41 who received DAs as the initial treatment) were finally included for a comparative study.

RESULTS

The surgery group exhibited better outcomes in terms of DA-free remission and the structural response, although the tumor size was significantly larger than in the DA group. The groups exhibited comparable results in terms of symptom control and the biochemical response. Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that surgery as the initial treatment modality provided significantly better clinical outcomes in terms of DA-free remission. In the surgery group, a postoperative prolactin level < 10 ng/mL was the only significant predictor of DA-free remission.

CONCLUSIONS

Transsphenoidal surgery showed comparable clinical outcomes in patients with prolactinomas, and low complication rates. The decision regarding the first-line treatment modality for non-invasive prolactinomas should be made on an individual basis.

The PRolaCT studies - a study protocol for a combined randomised clinical trial and observational cohort study design in prolactinoma

Background

First-line treatment for prolactinomas is a medical treatment with dopamine agonists (DAs), which effectively control hyperprolactinaemia in most patients, although post-withdrawal remission rates are approximately 34%. Therefore, many patients require prolonged DA treatment, while side effects negatively impact health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Endoscopic transsphenoidal resection is reserved for patients with severe side effects, or with DA-resistant prolactinoma. Surgery has a good safety profile and high probability of remission and may thus deserve a more prominent place in prolactinoma treatment. The hypothesis for this study is that early or upfront surgical resection is superior to DA treatment both in terms of HRQoL and remission rate in patients with a non-invasive prolactinoma of limited size.

Methods

We present a combined randomised clinical trial and observational cohort study design, which comprises three unblinded randomised controlled trials (RCTs; PRolaCT-1, PRolaCT-2, PRolaCT-3), and an observational study arm (PRolaCT-O) that compare neurosurgical counselling, and potential subsequent endoscopic transsphenoidal adenoma resection, with current standard care. Patients with a non-invasive prolactinoma (< 25 mm) will be eligible for one of three RCTs based on the duration of pre-treatment with DAs: PRolaCT-1: newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve patients; PRolaCT-2: patients with limited duration of DA treatment (4–6 months); and PRolaCT-3: patients with persisting prolactinoma after DA treatment for > 2 years. PRolaCT-O will include patients who decline randomisation, due to e.g. a clear treatment preference. Primary outcomes are disease remission after 36 months and HRQoL after 12 months.

Discussion

Early or upfront surgical resection for patients with a limited-sized prolactinoma may be a reasonable alternative to the current standard practice of DA treatment, which we will investigate in three RCTs and an observational cohort study. Within the three RCTs, patients will be randomised between neurosurgical counselling and standard care. The observational study arm will recruit patients who refuse randomisation and have a pronounced treatment preference. PRolaCT will collect randomised and observational data, which may facilitate a more individually tailored practice of evidence-based medicine.

Trial registration

US National Library of Medicine registry (ClinicalTrials.gov) NCT04107480. Registered on 27 September 2019, registered retrospectively (by 2 months).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-021-05604-y.

Determinants of Surgical Remission in Prolactinomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Prolactin-secreting tumors respond well to medical management, with a few patients requiring surgery. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to study the determinants of surgical remission in these tumors.

METHODS

We searched PubMed to identify eligible studies reporting postoperative remission in patients treated with transsphenoidal surgery for prolactinoma. Primary outcomes included postoperative remission, follow-up remission, and recurrence. Postoperative and follow-up remission were defined as normoprolactinemia at <1 year and >1 year after operation, respectively. Recurrence was defined as hyperprolactinemia after initial normalization of prolactin levels. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated, stratified by radiologic size, tumor extension, and tumor invasion, and analyzed using a random-effects model meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty-five studies were included. Macroadenomas were associated with lower rates of postoperative remission (OR, 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16-0.24) and lower rates of remission at follow-up (OR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.053-0.22). Postoperative remission was less likely in tumors with extrasellar or suprasellar extension (OR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.06-0.43) and tumors with cavernous sinus invasion (OR, 0.03; 95% CI, 0.01-0.13). Female gender and absence of preoperative dopamine agonist treatment were also associated with higher remission rates. Across the included studies, there was considerable heterogeneity in each primary outcome (postoperative remission, I² = 94%; follow-up remission, I² = 86%; recurrence, I² = 68%).

CONCLUSIONS

Transsphenoidal surgery for prolactinomas may be particularly effective in small, noninvasive, treatment-naive tumors and may provide a viable first-line alternative to dopamine agonist therapy in such patients.

Impact of primary medical or surgical therapy on prolactinoma patients' BMI and metabolic profile over the long-term

•

High prolactin (PRL) levels are associated with weight gain and impaired metabolic profiles.

•

Long-term control of hyperprolactinemia can be attained by first-line surgery and medical therapy.

•

Normalization of PRL improves patients’ BMI and fasting glucose levels.

•

Marginal changes in patients’ metabolic profiles are noted regardless of the primary therapy.

•

Not dopamine agonists per se, but rather the control of hyperprolactinemia plays a role in metabolic profile alterations.

Objectives

High prolactin levels have been associated with weight gain and impaired metabolic profiles. While treatment with dopamine agonists (DAs) has been shown to improve these parameters, there is a lack of surgical series on its comparative effect in prolactinoma patients.

Methods

In this retrospective, comparative study, consecutive patients with a prolactinoma were enrolled if treated with first-line transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) or with DAs. Patients with prolactinomas of Knosp grade >2 and those with a follow-up <24 months were excluded, as were patients with missing laboratory metabolic parameters at baseline and over the long-term. Effects of either treatment on BMI and the metabolic profile were analyzed, and independent risk factors for long-term obesity were calculated.

Results

Primary treatment was TSS for 12 patients (40%) and DAs for 18 patients (60%). At diagnosis, no significant differences between the two cohorts were observed with regard to adenoma size, Knosp grading, baseline prolactin (PRL) levels, prevalence of hypogonadism, or laboratory metabolic parameters. Mean follow-up was 51.9 months (range, 24–158). Over the long-term, both TSS and DAs led to the control of hyperprolactinemia (92% vs. 72%) and hypogonadism (78% vs. 83%) in the majority of patients. While a significant decrease in patients’ BMI and fasting glucose were observed, changes in the lipid profile were marginal and independent of the treatment modality. At baseline, increased BMI—but not the primary treatment strategy—was an independent predictor of long-term obesity.

Conclusions

Over the long-term, patients’ BMI and FG improve, but changes in the metabolic profile are marginal and independent of the primary treatment. It is presumable that not DAs per se, but rather the control of hyperprolactinemia plays a role in patients’ metabolic profile alterations.

Long-term IGF-1 monitoring in prolactinoma patients treated with cabergoline might not be indicated

PURPOSE

Cabergoline (CAB) therapy for prolactinomas has been associated with serum IGF-1 levels modifications, with recent reports indicating a paradoxical increase of IGF-1 levels during ongoing therapy. As a result, IGF-1 measurement has been proposed not only at diagnosis of a prolactinoma, but also during follow-up. In this follow-up study on prolactinoma patients with chronic CAB therapy, we investigated whether there are long-term changes in IGF-1 levels that necessitate continuous monitoring.

METHODS

We reviewed our institutional database on prolactinoma patients with long-term CAB therapy, in whom IGF-1 levels were measured at baseline, at 3-months follow-up and in the long term.

RESULTS

Chronic CAB therapy was noted in 20 patients (13 men, 7 women). Median (±SD) age was 43.5 ± 12.6 years. 17 (85%) patients presented with a macroprolactinoma. Median CAB treatment time was 75 ± 43 months (range 24-187). Median IGF-1 levels increased at last follow-up, though not significantly; from 122 ± 37 ng/ml (IQR 104-160 ng/ml) to 133 ± 54 (IQR 121-162 ng/ml), p = 0.10. Thereby, 18 (90%) patients showed normal serum IGF-1 levels adjusted for age, one (5%) patient above (1.05 × ULN) and 1 (5%) patient below the normal range (0.34 × ULN). No patient was or became symptomatic of acromegaly.

CONCLUSION

Our long-term results indicate that chronic treatment with CAB in prolactinoma patients does not significantly modify serum IGF-1 levels. Bearing in mind the sample size of this study, continuing IGF-1 monitoring is not indicated in prolactinoma patients with long-term CAB therapy.

Outcomes of Transsphenoidal Microsurgery for Prolactinomas - A Contemporary Series of 162 Cases

INTRODUCTION

Renewed interest in transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) as a therapeutic option for prolactinomas has emerged. This study is aimed at defining the current role of pituitary surgery in the management of prolactinomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective, consecutive single-center study, 162 patients who underwent primary microscopic TSS for prolactinomas between 2006 and 2019 were analyzed regarding surgical indication, previous dopamine-agonist (DA) treatment, early remission rates (3 months postoperatively), surgical complications and pituitary function.

RESULTS

Seventy-four microprolactinomas and 88 macroprolactinomas were operated by TSS. 62.3% of the patients had received prior DA treatment. For microprolactinomas, the predominant indication for surgery was patient's wish (41.9%), while indications for macroprolactinomas varied. For enclosed microprolactinomas, the initial remission rate was 92.1%, while for macroprolactinomas, the rate was 70.4%. No significant difference of remission rates was found between DA-pretreated (65.3%) and non-pretreated (72.1%) patients (p=0.373).None of the patients suffered a significant complication. Re-operation for a postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak was required in one patient (0.6%). Permanent postoperative deterioration of pituitary function was only observed in one of 158 patients with surgery for a prolactinoma (0.6%). Improvement of pituitary function was observed in 8 of 25 patients (32%) with preoperative deficits.

CONCLUSION

Transsphenoidal microsurgery is safe and efficient for treatment of prolactinomas. It is particularly suitable for enclosed prolactinomas. The patient should be well informed of the pros and cons of the treatment options, which include DA medication and TSS, and the patient's preference should be taken into account during decision-making.

Outcomes of surgical and/or medical treatment in patients with prolactinomas during long-term follow-up: a retrospective single-centre study

OBJECTIVES

Prolactinoma is the most common cause of pituitary tumours. Current medical guidelines recommend dopamine agonists (cabergoline or bromocriptine) as the initial therapy for prolactinoma. However, surgical removal can also be considered in selected cases, such as patients with macroadenomas with local complications (bleeding or optic chiasm pressure) or those not responding to medical treatment.

METHODS

The present retrospective study included patients with prolactinomas (n=43; female, 24; male, 19) who were primarily managed with medical (n=32) or surgical (n=11) treatment.

RESULTS

Macroadenoma (n=29.67%) was commonly detected in both genders (female, 54%; male, 84%). Moreover, the mean pre-treatment prolactin levels were similar in both genders (female, 683.3 ± 1347 ng/mL; male, 685.4 ± 805 ng/mL; p=0.226). Surgically treated patients had a greater reduction in tumour size (27.7 ± 17.9 mm pre-treatment vs. 8.72 ± 14.2 mm post-treatment) than non-surgically treated ones (12.5 ± 7.5 mm pre-treatment vs. 4.1 ± 4.2 mm post-treatment; p=0.00). However, the decrease in prolactin levels was similar between the two patient groups (p=0.108). During the follow-up period (10.6 ± 7.0 years), the average cabergoline dose of the patients was 1.42 ± 1.47 mcg/week.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a surgical approach was considered for selected cases of prolactinoma, the average dose used for medical treatment was highly inadequate for the patients in the present study.

Temozolomide cytoreductive treatment in a giant cabergoline-resistant prolactin-secreting pituitary neuroendocrine tumor

Dopamine agonists (DAs, especially cabergoline) are recommended as first-line treatment in patients with prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas, to reduce hormone secretion and tumor size. Pituitary surgery, suggested in nonresponsive patients, cannot achieve a gross total resection or is not feasible in some cases. Temozolomide (TMZ) has been proposed in patients with aggressive pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) who do not respond to conventional treatments. We present a 47-year-old man with a giant (70×51×64 mm) prolactin-secreting PitNET. Cabergoline treatment (at first 1.5 mg/week, and then increased to 3.5 mg/week after 3 months) achieved prolactin suppression; however, magnetic resonance revealed a stable mass. After explanation of surgical complications, the patient rejected the procedure. Therefore, a primary neoadjuvant cytoreductive TMZ treatment was discussed during a meeting of the Pituitary Multidisciplinary Team, and added to cabergoline. After 13 cycles of TMZ (1 year of treatment), we observed dramatic reduction of the PitNET (from 18 cm of adenoma to 6 cm of necrotic tissue). MRI performed 4, 12, and 18 months after TMZ discontinuation revealed a stable residual PitNET, and 1.5 mg/week of cabergoline has been continued until today. Recently, the criteria for developing Pituitary Tumors Centers of Excellence have been proposed, indicating that a multidisciplinary team is the best care for patients. Surgery, rejected by the patient, could only achieve a partial resection; therefore, we decided to combine TMZ and cabergoline. An early initiation of TMZ could be considered in selected cases, especially when surgery could be only partially effective.

Transsphenoidal resection for pituitary adenoma in elderly versus younger patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Pituitary adenomas (PA) are common intracranial tumors. In the context of the aging of the population, the question is whether postsurgical outcomes are comparable to the younger ones. The primary objective of the present study was to review published resection and recurrence rates after transsphenoidal resection. The secondary aim was to evaluate visual improvement and complication rates.

METHODS

The authors searched PubMed and Medline databases, of published English series, with no time frame limit, evaluating outcomes of transsphenoidal resection in populations aged more or less than 65, 70, and 80 years. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Median overall resection rates for younger population was 70.7% (range 54-76.8) and for elderly one was 65.7% (range 16.6-78.2) (two-sample t test, p = 0.35). The only statistically significant difference for gross total resection rates (GTR) favored patients aged less than 80 (p = 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference among recurrence rates. There was a statistically significant difference for visual improvement favoring patients aged more than 80 (p = 0.03). For the age groups of less versus more than 70, there was a statistically significant difference for overall complication rate favoring younger groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Present data shows GTR rates favoring younger patients. Recurrence rates remain similar over the mean follow-up period. Moreover, visual improvement favors patients aged more than 80. Overall complication rates favor patients younger than 70, which might be also related to additional comorbidities, frequently present in seniors. Transsphenoidal surgery is safe and effective even for older patients.

Surgery as a Viable Alternative First-Line Treatment for Prolactinoma Patients. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

CONTEXT

The improved remission and complication rates of current transsphenoidal surgery warrant reappraisal of the position of surgery as a viable alternative to dopamine agonists in the treatment algorithm of prolactinomas.

OBJECTIVE

To compare clinical outcomes after dopamine agonist withdrawal and transsphenoidal surgery in prolactinoma patients.

METHODS

Eight databases were searched up to July 13, 2018. Primary outcome was disease remission after drug withdrawal or surgery. Secondary outcomes were biochemical control and side effects during dopamine agonist treatment and postoperative complications. Fixed- or random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled proportions. Robustness of results was assessed by sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 1469 articles were screened: 55 (10 low risk of bias) on medical treatment (n = 3564 patients) and 25 (12 low risk of bias) on transsphenoidal surgery (n = 1836 patients). Long-term disease remission after dopamine agonist withdrawal was 34% (95% confidence interval [CI], 26-46) and 67% (95% CI, 60-74) after surgery. Subgroup analysis of microprolactinomas showed 36% (95% CI, 21-52) disease remission after dopamine agonist withdrawal, and 83% (95% CI, 76-90) after surgery. Biochemical control was achieved in 81% (95% CI, 75-87) of patients during dopamine agonists with side effects in 26% (95% CI, 13-41). Transsphenoidal surgery resulted in 0% mortality, 2% (95% CI, 0-5) permanent diabetes insipidus, and 3% (95% CI, 2-5) cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Multiple sensitivity analyses yielded similar results.

CONCLUSIONS

In the majority of prolactinoma patients, disease remission can be achieved through surgery, with low risks of long-term surgical complications, and disease remission is less often achieved with dopamine agonists.

Surgery for prolactinomas: a better choice?

PURPOSE

Renewed interest in transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) as a therapeutic option for prolactinomas has emerged.

METHODS

Based on contemporary literature and own experience, the changing role of surgery for treatment of prolactinomas is discussed.

RESULTS

Today, TSS is performed by minimally invasive microscopic or endoscopic techniques. Normoprolactinemia is obtained in 71-100% of patients with microprolactinomas by TSS. Almost equal results are found in circumscribed intrasellar macroprolactinomas. In experienced hands, pituitary function is preserved in TSS. The risk of cardiac valve disease is still a concern with ergot-derived dopamine-agonists (DAs) in patients requiring long-term, high-dose dopamine-agonist (DA) treatment. Cost-utility analysis favors TSS over DA treatment. The possible negative impact of DA treatment on future surgical results is still a controversial and unsettled issue. In patients who wish to become pregnant, the advantages of microprolactinoma removal to avoid DAs and macroprolactinoma debulking to avoid symptomatic enlargement during pregnancy should be discussed with the patients. Young patients' age is an argument for surgery to circumvent the unpredictable sequelae of long-term DA treatment. Surgery should be discussed in male gender because of a higher likelihood of DA resistance and aggressive behavior of prolactinoma.

CONCLUSION

Given excellent results of TSS and concerns about medical treatment, the scale of indications for TSS as an alternative to DAs has increased. The patient's wishes concerning a chance at a cure with TSS instead of a long-term treatment with DAs has become an important and accepted indication. With DA medication and TSS, two effective treatment modalities for prolactinomas are available that can be used in a complementary fashion.

Hyperprolactinaemia

Hyperprolactinaemia is one of the most common problems in clinical endocrinology. It relates with various aetiologies (physiological, pharmacological, pathological), the clarification of which requires careful history taking and clinical assessment. Analytical issues (presence of macroprolactin or of the hook effect) need to be taken into account when interpreting the prolactin values. Medications and sellar/parasellar masses (prolactin secreting or acting through “stalk effect”) are the most common causes of pathological hyperprolactinaemia. Hypogonadism and galactorrhoea are well-recognized manifestations of prolactin excess, although its implications on bone health, metabolism and immune system are also expanding. Treatment mainly aims at restoration and maintenance of normal gonadal function/fertility, and prevention of osteoporosis; further specific management strategies depend on the underlying cause. In this review, we provide an update on the diagnostic and management approaches for the patient with hyperprolactinaemia and on the current data looking at the impact of high prolactin on metabolism, cardiovascular and immune systems.

[Pituitary adenomas]

Despite characteristic symptoms the diagnosis of clinically relevant pituitary adenomas is often delayed until an advanced stage due to the rarity of the disease. The typical clinical manifestations are presented in this review article. The recent discovery of the USP8 mutation in Cushing's disease and of X‑linked acrogigantism (X-LAG) syndrome in early onset gigantism were milestones in the search for the molecular etiology of pituitary adenomas. The triad of endocrinological, radiological and ophthalmological diagnostics are the main pillars for the diagnostic work-up of pituitary adenomas. The standard treatment modalities, which include surgery, medical treatment and irradiation, have been further developed and refined. For transsphenoidal excision of pituitary adenomas, microsurgery and endoscopy are two equivalent surgical techniques with relatively few complications. Surgery represents the first-line treatment of pituitary adenomas. Prolactinomas are an exception as the medical treatment with dopamine agonists is highly efficient. Nowadays, new medical treatment options are available for acromegaly and Cushing's disease and are used for second-line treatment. The alkylating chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide is used for the first-line chemotherapy of rare aggressively growing pituitary adenomas. Irradiation is indicated if surgical and medical treatment options are insufficiently successful. Stereotactic one-stage irradiation (radiosurgery) is especially suitable for well-demarcated invasive residual or recurrent adenomas in the cavernous sinus. A new development is hypofractionated radiosurgery for protection of structures at risk. Fractionated irradiation is necessary with large radiation volumes and for pituitary adenomas with a close proximity to the optic tract.

The burden of disease for pituitary patients

Pituitary diseases are rare conditions with severe chronic multiorgan and multisystemic morbidity requiring complex multidisciplinary treatment and usually life-long drug treatment. Most cases are caused by functioning or non-functioning pituitary adenoma. From the patient's perspective, the burden of disease is caused by the tumour itself and associated compression symptoms, interventions, hormone excess and deficiencies, systemic manifestations of these endocrine abnormalities and general psychosocial issues that can manifest in patients with a chronic condition. In this review, patient burden is classified according to classic endocrine syndromes, with burden at diagnosis and after long-term remission, and also within the framework of value-based health care and the conceptual model of wellbeing. The recently developed patient-reported outcome measurement tool that helps to evaluate burden of patients is also discussed.

Surgery for Prolactinomas to Date

While in the past surgery for prolactinomas was a competitive option to medical treatment with dopamine agonists, to date the indications for operations are restricted to only a few specific situations. However, if a patient is intolerant to medical treatment or if the drugs are not sufficiently effective in terms of lowering prolactin levels or tumor shrinkage, surgery should always be considered. In microprolactinomas, operations can achieve excellent prolactin normalization rates. In tumors difficult to treat, the combination of surgical tumor resection and long-term medical treatment supports better control of the disease. The individual indications, results, techniques, and complications of operations for prolactinomas are briefly reviewed in this paper.