Long-term surgical outcome in 16 patients with thyrotropin pituitary adenoma

Abstract

Transsphenoidal surgery can achieve a good long-term outcome in patients with thyrotropin-secreting pituitary adenomas if surgery is performed before these become larger, invasive tumors. In the authors' experience, thyrotropin-secreting adenomas are fibrous and firm, which makes it difficult to achieve surgical remission. In addition, even satisfactory resection of the tumor sometimes results in recurrence of SITS or hyperthyroid symptoms due to coexistent primary hyperthyroidism. It is emphasized that a careful follow-up review is necessary after surgery, especially in patients with a long preoperative history of hyperthyroidism.