Management of cystic prolactinomas: a review

Introduction Cystic prolactinoma is a variant of prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma. The strategies for the management of cystic prolactinoma have not been addressed thoroughly in clinical guidelines. Methods A literature search was performed using Pubmed to review the current approaches to the treatment of cystic prolactinoma. Results Transsphenoidal resection is an effective and relatively safe approach for the treatment of cystic prolactinoma, however, morbidity of surgery is dependent on the skill of the surgeon. Emerging studies allude to the efficacy and safety of dopamine agonists in the management of cystic prolactinoma. Dopamine agonists are associated with considerable rates of clinical improvement and tumor shrinkage, hence reducing the need for surgical intervention. Conclusions Recent studies suggest that dopamine agonist therapy may be an effective and safe treatment option in a considerable portion of patients with cystic prolactinomas. We suggest that dopamine agonists should be considered as a first-line therapy for cystic prolactinoma in the absence of indications for early surgical intervention.