5th April 2024

An 88-year-old widower presents to an endocrine clinic with her daughter

An 88-year-old widower presents to an endocrine clinic with her daughter. She has recently experienced significant weight gain, headaches and weakness in her legs. Subsequent tests confirmed an ACTH secreting pituitary tumour and the reason for this visit is to discuss management options.

The patient has moderate Alzheimer’s disease and lives in a nursing home. Her past medical history includes bilateral hip replacements, osteoporosis and hypothyroidism. Following discussions between the patient, the daughter and the surgical team, it is decided surgical removal of the pituitary tumour would not be feasible. What would be the next best treatment option for this patient?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.