Management Approaches and Patient Outcomes for Giant Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors Classified as Knosp Grade 3 and 4

Background Treatment of patients with a giant pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (GPitNET) is challenging. Here, we present the methods used for the clinical management of patients who underwent GPitNET resection mainly via endoscopic endonasal surgery along with multimodal support to avoid surgical complications, which can affect the outcomes. Methodology The medical records of 25 patients with a GPitNET who underwent endonasal endoscopic surgery were retrospectively reviewed. Complications were analyzed and factors affecting the extent of resection were evaluated. Results Gross total resection was achieved in six (24%), near-total resection (>90%) in nine (36%), and partial resection in 10 (40%) patients. Multivariate analyses revealed that tumors invading the middle fossa had negative effects on the extent of resection (odds ratio = 0.092, p = 0.047). Postoperative vision improved or normalized in 16 (64%), remained stable in eight (32%), and worsened in one (4%), while a new hormonal deficit was noted in seven (28%) patients. Complications included permanent oculomotor nerve palsy in one (4%) and transient oculomotor palsy in one (4%), apoplexy of the residual tumor resulting in ischemic stroke in one (4%), postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage in one (4%), and permanent diabetes insipidus in six (24%) patients. Conclusions For GPitNETs that extend into the middle fossa, our study underscored the difficulties in surgical extraction and the necessity for tailored treatment approaches. To ensure the safest and most complete removal possible, the surgical strategy must be specifically adapted to each case. Additionally, employing a comprehensive support approach is essential to reduce the chance of complications in patients impacted by this condition.

Case report: Giant pituitary neuroendocrine tumor presented along with acute visual loss due to pituitary apoplexy after receiving COVID-19 vaccination

Objective

A case of giant pituitary neuroendocrine tumor presented along with acute visual loss due to pituitary apoplexy after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination is reported.

Case presentation

A 45-year-old man was referred for a giant pituitary tumor with bitemporal hemianopsia. A surgical procedure was planned and then delayed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Japan, with a Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine administered while awaiting surgery. Three days after the second COVID-19 vaccination the patient noted a progressively worsening headache that caused pituitary apoplexy and then a decrease in vision. Emergency surgery was thus performed.

Conclusion

Pituitary apoplexy is a rare and life-threatening complication that may occur after undergoing a COVID-19 vaccination.