Hormonal Influences on Cognitive Function in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors.

Abstract

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) represent prevalent central nervous system neoplasms frequently associated with endocrine disturbances and cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive function encompasses the brain's sophisticated capacity to acquire, process, and analyze external information. When severe cognitive impairment develops in these patients, it imposes substantial burdens on individuals, families, and society. This impairment may arise from various etiological factors, including tumor mass effect. Distinct from other common central nervous system tumors, PitNETs, owing to their unique anatomical position within the sella, often do not produce significant mass effects on adjacent brain parenchyma. Consequently, hormonal dysregulation is frequently posited as the primary mediator of cognitive dysfunction in these patients. This article comprehensively reviews the associations between various hormones and cognitive function in PitNET patients, briefly elucidates potential underlying mechanisms, and discusses cognitive outcomes following therapeutic intervention. It aims to provide a theoretical framework to guide future research in neuroendocrinology.