Comparison of conventional external radiotherapy and stereotactic radiotherapy in the treatment of pituitary adenoma

Abstract

Objective: To compare the results of pituitary adenoma treated with conventional external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) versus stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRS/SRT). Method and Material: Data of patients with pituitary adenoma treated at Radiotherapy and Oncology unit, Ramathibodi Hospital between 1990 from 2003 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Twenty-two patients were treated with EBRT and 51 patients were treated with SRS/SRT. Results: The 5-year overall survival and local control rates were not different between the EBRT and SRS/SRT group (91% vs 100%, p = 0.10; 95% vs 96%, p = 0.33). The 5-year freedom from newly initiated hormonal replacement was 50% in EBRT and 75% in SRS/SRT group (p = 0.38). Conclusion: At a similar outcome but with lower expense of resources, EBRT should be considered an acceptable radiation technique for patients with pituitary adenoma, especially in developing countries such as Thailand. Puataweepong P, Radiotherapy and Oncology Unit, Department of Radiology, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Rama VI Rd, Phyathai, Rajtawee, 10400, Bangkok rapptw@mahidol.ac.th.