Ectopic suprasellar growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma: case report.
Neurosurgery. 2007 Oct; 61(4):E879; discussion E879.N

Abstract

OBJECTIVE

Ectopic pituitary adenomas are rare. We present an unusual case of an ectopic growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma in the suprasellar space.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 31-year-old man presented with a history of chronic headache and typical clinical signs of acromegaly. Magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed a suprasellar mass not arising from the normal looking pituitary gland.

INTERVENTION

The patient underwent gross total removal of the tumor through a pterional approach. At the time of follow-up, he met the criteria of endocrinological cure. Histological examination showed a growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma

CONCLUSION

Although uncommon, growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas are encountered in the suprasellar region. They should be added to the differential diagnosis of tumors in this location.