Lymphocytic and granulocytic hypophysitis: a single centre experience

• Published in: British journal of neurosurgery Vol. 15; no. 3; pp. 242 - 246
• Main Authors: Buxton, N., Robertson, I.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Informa UK Ltd 01-06-2001; Taylor & Francis
• Subjects: Adult; Female; Granulocytic Hypophysitis Lymphocytic Hypophysitis Pituitary Tumours; Granuloma - diagnosis; Humans; Hypopituitarism - etiology; Inflammation - pathology; Lymphoma - diagnosis; Magnetic Resonance Imaging - methods; Middle Aged; Pituitary Neoplasms - diagnosis; Pituitary Neoplasms - surgery; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic - diagnosis; Retrospective Studies; Vision Disorders - etiology
• ISSN: 0268-8697; 1360-046X
• DOI: 10.1080/02688690120057664

Lymphocytic and granulocytic hypophysitis are rare pituitary masses. A series of five dealt with at a single centre is presented and discussed. Retrospective analysis of pathology records revealed the cases. Of pituitary mass lesions dealt with in this centre, 0.8% have the diagnosis. Five females presented, one pregnant at the time of presentation, three presenting with signs and symptoms of panhypopituitarism, and two with visual problems. All were treated by surgical means. All had good postoperative visual function, but all were panhypopituitary. Follow-up was for a mean of 4 years and 1 month. This rare condition should be treated by surgical means to obtain a diagnosis. Further treatment of residual tumour can be with corticosteroids. Good visual function should be expected, but so should permanent loss of pituitary function.