How common are brain aneurysms in people diagnosed with a Pituitary adenoma?
Pituitary adenomas are noncancerous tumors that develop on the pituitary gland. While these tumors and intracranial aneurysms (bulges in blood vessels in the brain) are separate conditions, they can sometimes occur together in the same patient.
What the research says
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 71 studies found that the pooled prevalence of intracranial aneurysms among patients with pituitary adenomas is approximately 4% 3. This rate varies slightly by sex, with a reported prevalence of 8% in females and 6% in males 3.
Research indicates that these two conditions are often discovered at different times. In the studies reviewed, the diagnosis of an aneurysm occurred significantly later than the diagnosis of the pituitary adenoma 3. When both conditions are present, they may involve specific areas, such as the cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery 3.
In some cases, these aneurysms can be located very close to or embedded within the tumor. These situations can create significant challenges during surgery because a ruptured aneurysm can be life-threatening 5. Additionally, while radiation therapy for pituitary adenomas is associated with an increased risk of developing cerebral aneurysms, such cases are considered rare 7.
What to ask your doctor
- What is the likelihood that I have an intracranial aneurysm given my diagnosis?
- Are there any specific types of aneurysms commonly found near pituitary tumors?
- Does the location of my tumor increase the risk of complications during surgery?
- How does the timing of my diagnosis affect the monitoring for other conditions like aneurysms?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Neurology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.