AJSP2406 - CME/CMLE - Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors and granular cell pituicytomas at autopsy-Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors and granular cell pituicytomas at autopsy

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors and granular cell pituicytomas at autopsy

Pdf Summary

The study investigates the incidences and characteristics of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) and granular cell pituicytomas (GCPs) through an analysis of 150 pituitary glands from autopsies conducted at the University of Kansas Medical Center from 1995 to 2000. Findings revealed a 25.3% incidence of PitNETs (38 out of 150 cases) and an 8.7% incidence of GCPs (13 out of 150 cases).<br /><br />### Key Results:<br />- **PitNETs**:<br />  - 38 cases were identified, with four cases having double tumors.<br />  - Tumors were primarily microadenomas and mostly located close to the pituitary capsule.<br />  - 54.7% of these tumors did not express any pituitary hormones.<br />  - Lactotroph tumors were the most common hormone-positive tumors, accounting for 30.9%, with some exhibiting concomitant hormone expression.<br /><br />- **GCPs**:<br />  - Found exclusively in the posterior lobe and the pituitary stalk.<br />  - Incidence peaks in individuals in their 60s.<br />  - Transformation of pituicytes into granular cells was noted.<br /><br />### Methodology:<br />- Pituitary glands were sagittally sliced into 6 to 8 sections.<br />- Tumors identified in H&E-stained sections were further analyzed using immunohistochemical staining for six pituitary hormones.<br />- Tumor sizes, locations, and immunostaining profiles were recorded.<br /><br />### Discussion:<br />The study underscores the significant incidence of incidental PitNETs and GCPs in autopsy series. The proximity of PitNETs to the pituitary capsule suggests a potential histogenesis link. Immunohistochemically, both tumor types were classified into different transcription factor lineages. The study's robust slicing method revealed higher incidences compared to earlier studies, affirming that meticulous tissue processing can uncover more silent microadenomas.<br /><br />The findings contribute to understanding the natural history and prevalence of PitNETs and GCPs, highlighting the importance of autopsy studies in medical research.

Keywords

Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors

Granular Cell Pituicytomas

Autopsy Study

University of Kansas Medical Center

Pituitary Glands

Microadenomas

Immunohistochemical Staining

Pituitary Hormones

Histogenesis

Medical Research