Visual acuity and pattern of visual field loss at presentation in pituitary adenoma

Abstract

Our purpose was to analyse the demographics, prevalence and pattern of visual field defects in patients with pituitary adenoma. We prospectively recruited 103 consecutive patients (206 eyes) presenting to a neurosurgical unit with pituitary adenoma. Ophthalmological examination and standard automated perimetry (Humphrey, 24-2 threshold) was performed. Severity of visual field defects was also assessed. The mean population age was 53.9 years (standard deviation = 15). Visual loss was the most common reason for presentation (39%) followed by endocrine abnormality (21%) and headache (15%). Patients with endocrine abnormality on presentation were 10.9 years younger than those presenting with vis..