An interesting case of pituitary adenoma presenting as an invasive nasopharyngeal tumor

Abstract

Pituitary masses usually present as sellar masses with suprasellar or parasellar extension. However, in unusual cases pituitary tumors especially macroprolactinomas and nonfunctional adenomas can present with intranasal extension which can be misdiagnosed as nasal polyp or a primary invasive nasopharyngeal malignant tumor. The otolaryngologists should be familiar with this rare presentation of pituitary masses. Measurement of prolactin (PRL) is essential in cases of recalcitrant nasal polyps or rhinorrhea as it may change the management in such cases. Here we describe case of a patient with an invasive pituitary adenoma who had presented in the otorhinolaryngology department with a nasal obstruction and epistaxis. We have also reviewed 30 cases of pituitary adenoma with nasopharyngeal invasion published in past.

Keywords

• Chromophobe adenoma
• invasive pituitary adenoma
• macroprolactinomas
• nasopharyngeal malignancy