Large pituitary adenomas with extension into the nasopharynx. Report of three cases with a review of the literature

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 1989 Aug;98(8 Pt 1):618-24. doi: 10.1177/000348948909800810.

Abstract

Three cases of pituitary adenoma with extension into the nasopharynx and nasal cavity are reported. The occurrence of this rare tumor underscores the need to consider a pituitary tumor whenever a patient presents with rhinologic complaints and destruction of the sellar floor. Epistaxis, although exceptional, may be the first manifestation of a pituitary tumor. Immunohistochemical analysis combined with staining for the pituitary hormones proved to be essential for reaching a definite diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging seems to be the modality of choice for differentiation between tumorous and nontumorous sinus obstruction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma / diagnosis
  • Adenoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Adenoma / pathology*
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed