Pituitary Neoplasms
| Definition: |
Neoplasms which arise from or metastasize to the PITUITARY GLAND. The majority of pituitary neoplasms are adenomas, which are divided into non-secreting and secreting forms. Hormone producing forms are further classified by the type of hormone they secrete. Pituitary adenomas may also be characterized by their staining properties (see ADENOMA, BASOPHIL; ADENOMA, ACIDOPHIL; and ADENOMA, CHROMOPHOBE). Pituitary tumors may compress adjacent structures, including the HYPOTHALAMUS, several CRANIAL NERVES, and the OPTIC CHIASM. Chiasmal compression may result in bitemporal HEMIANOPSIA. |
| Notes: |
coord IM with site in pituitary (IM) + histol type of neopl (IM) |
Pituitary Neoplasms Categories.
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Nelson Syndrome - A syndrome characterized by increased skin pigmentation, visual defects secondary to compression of the OPTIC CHIASM, and elevated serum levels of ACTH following adrenalectomy for CUSHING SYNDROME. The cause of this syndrome is expansion of an underlying ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma. (Joynt, Clinical Neurology, 1992, Ch36, p81) |
Pituitary Neoplasms Definitions and Terms
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