Lactotroph Adenoma: Symptoms and Risks

Lactotroph adenoma is a type of pituitary tumor that develops in the cells responsible for producing prolactin, a hormone involved in lactation. This adenoma causes an overproduction of prolactin, which can disrupt the body's hormonal balance. The excess prolactin levels can have various impacts on health and well-being, affecting reproductive functions and potentially leading to complications if left untreated.

What are the Symptoms of Lactotroph Adenoma

Lactotroph adenoma symptoms often relate to hormonal imbalances and may manifest subtly or with more noticeable effects.

Irregular menstrual periods
Milky discharge from the breasts unrelated to breastfeeding
Headaches
Vision problems
Fatigue
Infertility

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Lactotroph Adenoma

Lactotroph adenoma, a type of pituitary tumor, is primarily caused by the overgrowth of lactotroph cells in the pituitary gland, leading to excessive production of the hormone prolactin.

Genetic mutations
Hormonal imbalances
Medications
Pituitary gland disorders

Types of Lactotroph Adenoma

Lactotroph adenomas can present in various types or forms, each with distinct characteristics and implications for treatment and management.

Prolactinoma: The most common type of lactotroph adenoma that causes excess production of prolactin hormone.
Mixed or Silent Adenoma: A rare type of lactotroph adenoma that produces hormones other than prolactin or doesn't produce any hormone.
Mammosomatotroph Adenoma: A subtype of lactotroph adenoma that produces both prolactin and growth hormone.
Crooke's Cell Adenoma: A rare aggressive type of lactotroph adenoma with densely granulated cells.
Acidophil Stem Cell Adenoma: A subtype of lactotroph adenoma with acidophilic properties derived from stem cells.

Risk Factors

Lactotroph adenoma risk factors may include genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications.

Risk factors for Lactotroph adenoma:

Gender (more common in females)
Age (most commonly diagnosed in women of childbearing age)
Genetic factors
Hormonal imbalances

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Lactotroph Adenoma

Lactotroph adenoma is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and specific tests.

Blood tests
Imaging tests
Visual field testing

Treatment for Lactotroph Adenoma

Lactotroph adenoma is typically managed through a combination of medical and surgical interventions based on the size and symptoms of the tumor.

Medication: Lactotroph adenomas can be treated with medications such as dopamine agonists to reduce prolactin levels and shrink the tumor.
Surgery: In cases where medications are not effective or if the tumor is large, surgical removal of the adenoma may be necessary.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to treat residual tumor cells following surgery or for tumors that are not amenable to surgery.
Watchful waiting: In some cases, especially for small and asymptomatic adenomas, a watchful waiting approach may be taken to monitor the tumor's growth without immediate intervention.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may be used to help manage symptoms and normalize hormone levels in patients with lactotroph adenomas.

Find Our Specialists

Book Doctor Appointment

Name*

Mobile Number*

I agree to the Medicover Privacy Policy

International Patient Services

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lactotroph adenoma?

A lactotroph adenoma is a benign tumor that forms in the pituitary gland and causes overproduction of prolactin hormone.

What are the symptoms of lactotroph adenoma?

Symptoms may include irregular menstrual periods, decreased libido, infertility, and milk production from the breasts in nonpregnant individuals.

How is lactotroph adenoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests to measure prolactin levels, imaging studies such as MRI, and sometimes a visual field test to assess for any vision changes.