Pituitary Tuberculoma Masquerading as a Pituitary Adenoma: Interesting Case Report and Review of Literature.

Abstract

We present a rare case of a pituitary tuberculoma masquerading as pituitary adenoma with pituitary apoplexy-like presentation in a 31-year-old female, who had symptoms suggestive of acute secondary adrenal insufficiency with secondary amenorrhea. After initial evaluation which was suggestive of pituitary adenoma, she underwent endoscopic transnasal pituitary tumor excision. Histopathology revealed features of pituitary tuberculoma. She was subsequently started on four drug anti-tubercular therapy and is on follow-up. Although uncommon, tuberculomas, especially in the pituitary gland, are known for behaving like pituitary adenomas, by impairment of pituitary hormonal function and by exerting pressure effects on surrounding vital intracranial structures. Diagnostic challenges, treatment modality, and literature review are presented in this case report. Pituitary tuberculoma even though a rare entity should be borne in mind as a differential diagnosis in a patient manifesting with pituitary apoplexy-like syndrome.