Pituitary Microadenoma Treated with Individualized Homeopathic Medicine: A Case Report

Abstract

Abstract Background Pituitary adenomas are common benign tumors of the pituitary gland with an overall estimated prevalence of 16.7%. As per the revised World Health Organization (WHO) classification, these tumors are identified by their histological subtypes and are designated by their pituitary cell lineage instead of the hormone they produce. The lactotroph adenoma is the most common subtype of hormone-producing pituitary adenoma. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment, but complications are encountered. So far, there is no reported study evaluating individualized homeopathic intervention in pituitary adenoma in peer-reviewed journals. Methods This case study describes a case of functional lactotroph microadenoma with history of failed surgical treatment and heavy intrasellar hemorrhage occurring during the surgery. Phosphorus was prescribed as an individualized homeopathic medicine on the basis of symptoms—hemorrhagic complication during surgical procedure and aggravation of headache thereafter. Results There was a marked subjective improvement along with complete tumor regression, as evidenced by repeat magnetic resonance imaging scans. The Modified Naranjo Criteria total score was +10 out of a possible +13, providing some evidence to attribute the clinical outcome with the homeopathic intervention. Conclusion This case study reconfirms the association between increased frequency of headaches and pituitary hemorrhage among cases of lactotroph adenoma. It also suggests that individualized homeopathic treatment may be helpful in pituitary adenomas with increased risk of complications such as intrasellar hemorrhage.