Radiotherapy of pituitary tumors.

The treatment of pituitary adenomas with conventional radiotherapy is safe and effective. Radiation controls the mass effects of large tumors in 80 to 90 per cent of patients and is especially valuable in preventing recurrence after partial resection. In acromegaly, about 80 per cent of patients are controlled; with Cushing's disease, the ultimate cure rate is from 50 to 80 per cent; the control rate for prolactin-secreting adenomas is not yet established. With appropriate radiation technique, including proper dose and daily fraction size, clinically significant complications other than hypopituitarism are rare.