What if tumor is left behind after an attempt at surgical removal. Is radiation always required?
If there is a substantial amount of a non-secretory tumor remaining after a transsphenoidal operation, radiation therapy can be used to halt further growth of the residual tumor. There are now a number of different forms of radiation treatment available for pituitary tumors. If only a small amount of tumor remains, it can often be followed with serial MRIs and further therapy deferred until there are signs of regrowth, which may not occur for years. If there is residual tumor after surgery for acromegaly, Cushing’s disease, or prolactinomas, medical treatments are available to control the excess hormone secretion. These medications, which are typically given under the supervision of an endocrinologist, can sometimes be used instead of, or in addition to, radiation therapy.
Related Questions
- I have lung cancer and my health care professional wants to do a surgical resection (removal of the tumor). How do I know if this is the right thing to do?
- What if tumor is left behind after an attempt at surgical removal. Is radiation always required?
- When is a cancer patient considered "cured" after the surgical removal of a tumor?
