Key clinical message: Ectopic pituitary adenoma is a rare neoplasm located in the clivus and could mimic other clival tumors. Diagnosis and treatment could be challenging. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of clival tumors.
Abstract: Ectopic pituitary adenomas (EPAs) are isolated adenomas that can be located in variable locations outside the sella turcica and have a normal-appearing pituitary gland. These tumors are rare and are thought to often arise from embryological remnants along the route of Rathke's pouch migration. EPAs are associated with a wide range of clinical manifestations depending on hormonal activity and involvement of adjacent structures, which can represent a challenge in making the diagnosis and deciding on the most appropriate management. In this case study, we report a 47-year-old male who presented with visual disturbances, a headache, and generalized weakness. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a 2 cm mass located in the clivus invading the sphenoid sinus with an intact pituitary gland. The patient underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery to eradicate the mass while maintaining the integrity of the pituitary gland, which was successful and uneventful. Pathological studies were consistent with prolactinoma, with no cytological malignant features. Post-surgery, symptoms notably improved, and serum prolactin levels significantly dropped, The patient's condition was satisfactory on follow-up with no long-term complications reported. This paper contributes to the existing literature by sharing the clinical management of a challenging and uncommon case.
Keywords: case report; clival tumors; ectopic pituitary adenoma; prolactinoma; stalk effect; transsphenoidal surgery.
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