Imaging of pituitary tumors: a narrative review of magnetic resonance imaging findings
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/79rxkd48Keywords:
Pituitary tumors, Magnetic resonance imaging, ImagingAbstract
Introduction: Pituitary tumors constitute a heterogeneous group of lesions that may cause hormonal abnormalities and mass effect. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the imaging method of choice for their evaluation.
Objective: To synthesize the scientific evidence on the main imaging findings of pituitary tumors assessed by MRI.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, and Google Scholar, including publications from January 2020 to March 2026. Fifteen studies directly related to the objective were selected.
Results: The studies demonstrated variations in signal intensity and enhancement patterns, as well as suprasellar extension, cavernous sinus invasion, optic chiasm compression, and the presence of cystic, hemorrhagic, and necrotic components. These findings contribute to the differentiation of various sellar lesions.
Conclusions: Systematic interpretation of MRI improves the characterization of pituitary tumors, supports differential diagnosis, and provides relevant information for therapeutic planning.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mery Carolina Lamprea Villegas, Diana Sofía Meza Pincay, Domenica Stephanie Lema Robalino , Jean Carlos Marcillo Marcillo, Allyson Madeline Barrera Vásquez (Autor/a)
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