Abstract
Summary
Pituitary adenomas are intracranial neoplasms, usually demonstrating a benign phenotype. We present the case of 21-year-old male with an 18-month history of reduced visual function (acuity and field) in the left eye. Based on neuroimaging and endocrine profile, a giant prolactinoma causing hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was diagnosed and cabergoline was commenced. After a month of treatment, the tumour size reduced, and visual function improved to normal; however, he developed Foster Kennedy syndrome with a swollen right optic disc. After almost 1 year of follow-up, he regained full visual functioning. Two years since his diagnosis, his prolactin remains normal with no adverse effects or further visual complications.
Learning points
- Foster Kennedy syndrome is a rare entity but can be a feature of pituitary adenomas.
- Visual deterioration secondary to a compressive optic neuropathy can be reversible, provided that diagnosis and treatment are prompt.
- This case highlights the importance of frequent monitoring of visual function during follow-up of these lesions, particularly when there are deficits at diagnosis.
Pituitary adenomas are intracranial neoplasms, usually demonstrating a benign phenotype. We present the case of 21-year-old male with an 18-month history of reduced visual function (acuity and field) in the left eye. Based on neuroimaging and endocrine profile, a giant prolactinoma causing hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was diagnosed and cabergoline was commenced. After a month of treatment, the tumour size reduced, and visual function improved to normal; however, he developed Foster Kennedy syndrome with a swollen right optic disc. After almost 1 year of follow-up, he regained full visual functioning. Two years since his diagnosis, his prolactin remains normal with no adverse effects or further visual complications.
Learning points
- Foster Kennedy syndrome is a rare entity but can be a feature of pituitary adenomas.
- Visual deterioration secondary to a compressive optic neuropathy can be reversible, provided that diagnosis and treatment are prompt.
- This case highlights the importance of frequent monitoring of visual function during follow-up of these lesions, particularly when there are deficits at diagnosis.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 22-0261 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Endocrinology, diabetes & metabolism case reports |
Volume | 2022 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 26 Aug 2022 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Internal Medicine
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism