Vardenafil is a potent phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Several cases of stroke related to the use of PDE-5 inhibitors have been reported. Here, we describe the case of a 51-year-old man with headache and right ophthalmoplegia subsequent to vardenafil consumption. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed a suprasellar mass with hemorrhage suggesting pituitary apoplexy. He underwent transsphenoidal resection of the pituitary mass. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of a necrotic pituitary adenoma with hemorrhage. This report suggests a possible association between pituitary apoplexy and vardenafil use. In patients with preexisting pituitary adenoma, vardenafil may enhance the risk of pituitary apoplexy. Although headache is the most commonly reported side effect of vardenafil, pituitary apoplexy should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient with headache and ophthalmoplegia subsequent to vardenafil intake.
Keywords: Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor; Pituitary adenoma; Pituitary apoplexy; Stroke; Vardenafil.