Non-Functional Pituitary Adenomas, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Management and Outlook: Experience of the Diabetology-Endocrinology Department of the Mohammed VI University Hospital, Marrakech
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: Non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs) are benign tumors of the anterior pituitary gland that do not secrete biologically active hormones. They represent about 15–30% of diagnosed pituitary adenomas. This study aims to analyze the clinical and paraclinical features of NFPAs and discuss management strategies. Methods: This retrospective study involved 28 patients diagnosed with NFPAs between January 2018 and December 2024 at Mohamed VI University Hospital, Marrakech. Clinical, biological, and imaging data were collected and analyzed. Results: A female predominance was observed (sex ratio 4:10), with a mean age of 40.7 years. The main clinical signs were headaches and visual disturbances. Hormonal insufficiency was found in 80% of patients, with corticotropic insufficiency being the most common. MRI revealed macroadenomas in 67.8% of cases. The primary treatment was surgery, with radiotherapy used in some cases. Discussion: NFPAs are often associated with hormonal deficiencies and compressive symptoms. Surgery remains the gold standard, sometimes followed by radiotherapy. Genetic mutations, such as those in the MEN1 and CDKN1B genes, offer potential future therapeutic targets. Conclusion: NFPAs require multidisciplinary management and careful follow-up to prevent complications. Although the prognosis is generally favorable, ongoing monitoring is essential to detect recurrences and manage hormonal deficiencies.
Source: SAS Journal of Medicine
Authors: F-Z. El Jaafari, S. Rafi, S. Ijdda G. El Mghari, N. El Ansari
Institution: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohammed VI
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409209781