Pituitary adenoma : Radiological features

Pituitary adenoma

Also known as pituitary neuroendocrine tumours. Most secrete hormones.

Types by size: Microadenoma ( < 10mm) or Macroadenoma ( > 10mm)

Types by hormones secreted:

• Prolactinoma (30%)
• Corticotropic adenoma: ACTH (14%)
• Somatotrophic adenoma: GH (14%)
• Gonadotrophic adenoma : FSH/LH (7%)
• TSH (1%)
• Mixed (5%)

Pituitary Microadenoma

Adenoma < 10 mm

T1: Usually isointense in comparison to the normal pituitary

T2: Slightly hyperintense

T1 + C: The microadenoma usually displays delayed enhancement compared to the normal pituitary. Typically, it is hypoenhancing on the delayed phases.

Pituitary Macroadenoma

The most common suprasellar mass in adults

Adenoma > 10 mm

CT

Expansion of the pituitary fos...