histological classification

Last reviewed 01/2018

Classification:

  • hormone secreting adenomas:
    • acidophilic:
      • prolactin secreting (prolactinoma)
      • growth hormone secreting
    • basophilic:
    • ACTH secreting
      • TSH secreting - rare
      • FSH/LH secreting - rare
  • non-hormone secreting - i.e. endocrinologically inert - true chromophobe adenomas

Most pituitary tumours (99%) are benign (1). Malignant tumours and adenomas secreting gonadotrophins or thyroid-stimulating hormone are very rare (1).

Reference:

  • Prescribers' Journal (2000), 40 (2), 86-92.