In brain neoplasm evaluation, which hormones are commonly included in pituitary function testing?

In brain neoplasm evaluation, which hormones are commonly included in pituitary function testing?

• A. ACTH, TSH, PRL, GH
• B. Dopamine, Serotonin
• C. LH and FSH only
• D. PRL and ACTH only

Answer: (A)

When evaluating a brain neoplasm that may affect the pituitary, checking the major anterior pituitary axes is essential. ACTH paired with cortisol assesses the adrenal axis and helps detect secondary adrenal insufficiency, which is critical to recognize before stress or surgery. TSH with free T4 evaluates the thyroid axis, since thyroid dysfunction can significantly impact metabolism and recovery. Prolactin is particularly informative because stalk compression or pituitary tumor effects often raise prolactin levels, revealing lactotroph involvement. Growth hormone testing (often via GH response or IGF-1) gauges the somatotroph axis, informing about overall pituitary function and metabolic effects. Together, these hormones provide a broad snapshot of pituitary integrity in the context of a brain neoplasm. Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters rather than pituitary hormones routinely used in this panel, and while LH and FSH reflect gonadal function, they are not always included in the initial comprehensive pituitary assessment.

When evaluating a brain neoplasm that may affect the pituitary, checking the major anterior pituitary axes is essential. ACTH paired with cortisol assesses the adrenal axis and helps detect secondary adrenal insufficiency, which is critical to recognize before stress or surgery. TSH with free T4 evaluates the thyroid axis, since thyroid dysfunction can significantly impact metabolism and recovery. Prolactin is particularly informative because stalk compression or pituitary tumor effects often raise prolactin levels, revealing lactotroph involvement. Growth hormone testing (often via GH response or IGF-1) gauges the somatotroph axis, informing about overall pituitary function and metabolic effects. Together, these hormones provide a broad snapshot of pituitary integrity in the context of a brain neoplasm.

Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters rather than pituitary hormones routinely used in this panel, and while LH and FSH reflect gonadal function, they are not always included in the initial comprehensive pituitary assessment.