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Rapid decrease in amino acid metabolism in prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas after bromocriptine treatment: a PET study

Journal Article · · J. Comput. Assist. Tomogr.; (United States)

Four patients with prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas were examined with positron emission tomography using L-(/sup 11/C)methionine to monitor the effect of dopamine agonist treatment on the amino acid metabolism in the tumors. Within the first few hours after intramuscular injection of bromocriptine retard (50 mg) the amino acid metabolism decreased by 40%. Two of the patients were reexamined 7 and 9 days later and showed a 70% reduction in the metabolism of the adenomas. This metabolic effect was later accompanied by significant tumor shrinkage in all adenomas. It is suggested that bromocriptine has a general and rapid effect on the protein synthesis of the prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma cells.

Research Organization:
Univ. Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
OSTI ID:
5851183
Journal Information:
J. Comput. Assist. Tomogr.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Comput. Assist. Tomogr.; (United States) Vol. 11:5; ISSN JCATD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English