Pituitary Adenomas and Related Topics

These flashcards reflect key vocabulary and concepts related to pituitary adenomas and their effects, treatments, and symptoms as discussed in the lecture.

Pituitary Adenomas

Benign tumors of the pituitary gland that can cause hyperproduction of hormones and neurological damage.

Microadenoma

A pituitary adenoma with a diameter less than 10 mm.

Macroadenoma

A pituitary adenoma with a diameter greater than 10 mm.

Corticotroph Adenomas

Adenomas that produce excess ACTH leading to Cushing’s disease.

Growth Hormone Adenomas

Adenomas leading to acromegaly or gigantism due to excessive growth hormone.

Prolactinomas

Adenomas that secrete excess prolactin, causing infertility and menstrual irregularities.

TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)

A hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland's activity.

ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone)

A hormone that stimulates the activity of the adrenal cortex.

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

A hormone that plays a role in ovulation and testosterone production.

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

A hormone that stimulates estrogen production and ovarian follicle development in females.

Hypophyseal Portal System

The system of blood vessels that transports hormones from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary.

Neurohypophysis

The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stores and releases oxytocin and ADH.

Dexamethasone Suppression Test

A test to identify Cushing's disease by administering dexamethasone and measuring cortisol suppression.

Metyrapone Test

A test that assesses the HPA axis by inhibiting cortisol synthesis to diagnose Cushing's syndrome.

Surgery for Pituitary Adenoma

The primary treatment option for adenomas, performed through transsphenoidal surgery.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances

Complications arising from pituitary adenomas that disrupt normal hormone levels, leading to various health issues.

Vision Problems from Adenomas

Visual disturbances caused by pressure on optic nerves, including hemianopsia and diplopia.

Hardy's Classification of Pituitary Adenomas

A grading system for pituitary adenomas based on size, symmetry, and invasion.

Null Cell Adenoma

A type of pituitary adenoma that is hormonally inactive or doesn't produce measurable hormones.

Pituitary Adenocarcinomas

Malignant tumors of the pituitary gland that may or may not produce hormones.

Epidemiology of Pituitary Adenomas

Statistics on the occurrence of adenomas, including demographic factors and incidence rates.

Hypopituitarism

A condition where the pituitary gland fails to produce adequate amounts of certain hormones.