When is radiotherapy indicated to treat a prolactin secreting tumor?
Radiotherapy has rarely been used because hypopituitarism is a common side effect, generally occurring within a few years.
This complication is of critical concern, particularly in patients undergoing treatment for infertility. However, radiotherapy may be a useful adjunct in patients who require additional treatment after surgery and who do not tolerate dopamine agonists.
Some experts advocate the use of radiotherapy 3 months before attempting pregnancy in women with large tumors to avoid tumor reexpansion during pregnancy. Stereotactic radiosurgical techniques, such as the gamma knife, may improve outcomes and minimize radiation side effects.
