| Abstract [eng] |
Non-functioning pituitary adenomas are benign neuroendocrine tumors originating from the anterior pituitary cells. Unlike functioning pituitary adenomas, the cells of these tumors do not secrete active hormones and therefore do not cause endocrine symptoms related to hormone hypersecretion. Currently, magnetic resonance imaging is considered the gold standard for diagnosis. However, specific diagnosis of these tumors is usually made once they reach the size of a macroadenoma and begin to cause mass effect-related symptoms. As the tumor grows, it may compress the optic nerves, optic chiasm, and the remaining healthy pituitary tissue, leading to visual field defects, decreased visual acuity, or hypopituitarism. These symptoms not only impair the patient’s quality of life but can also be life-threatening, making timely diagnosis and treatment essential. Asymptomatic adenomas typically do not require treatment; however, once compression of surrounding structures occurs, surgical intervention is the preferred treatment option, with radiotherapy or medical therapy considered as adjuvant treatment. To prevent recurrence, regular postoperative monitoring is crucial. This thesis presents a literature review covering the epidemiology, classification, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and prognosis of non-functioning pituitary adenomas. Two clinical cases are presented: a 72-year-old woman and a 39-year-old man who both experienced headaches and visual disturbances due to large macroadenomas. Both underwent transsphenoidal resection, but the treatment outcomes differed: the first patient continued to have visual and pituitary dysfunction, while the second showed significant clinical improvement. These cases demonstrate that non-functioning pituitary adenomas can cause serious complications and require long-term follow-up. |
