Why patient should do the examination? (value of test).
It helps in detection of large pituitary gland tumors and to assess their extensions and relation of other brain structures.
Who benefits from getting tested?
Patients with complaints related to hormonal imbalance such as increased secretion of the prolactin or growth hormone.Patients with complaints related to the mass effect of the pituitary gland tumor such as visual field defects or headache.
Are there any contraindications to the examination?
Pregnant women particularly in the first trimester to avoid harmful effects of ionization radiation on the fetus. It can be carried out for pregnant women only in critical situations after discussion of the potential risks , obtaining informed consent and using abdominal lead aprons.Patients who have a known allergy to the intravenous contrast media, patients with impaired renal functions should avoid contrast enhanced study but can perform routine non contrast study safely.
What other tests should be done with this examination?
IV contrast administration particularly in suspected neoplastic conditions.Your physician may request dynamic MRI study of the sella in cases of pituitary gland hormonal imbalance and if pituitary micro adenoma is suspected and also to get more information about the disease nature and extension.
Examination preparations
No preparation needed for the non-contrast study.Patient should be food fasting 4-6 hrs before the exam in case of contrast enhanced study only. Adequate hydration is needed and recent kidney function test should be available at the time of your examination.
A brief description of the examination procedure
MSCT SELLA is done in almost 1 minute while the patient is lying comfortably on CT table.
Where I can get tested?
The examination is done on one of our highly advanced CT machines available in our branches.
Are there any aftercare or precautions to be done?
No after care or precautions needed following non contrast enhanced study.In case of contrast enhanced study drinking plenty of water is advised to help to wash out the injected IV contrast material out of your body except if you are on fluid balance for renal or cardiac condition you may consult your physician and in case of lactating mothers it is advised to escape lactation for 24 hrs after the contrast injection.
Are there any possible complications to the examination?
In very rare cases some patients may experience contrast allergic reaction after IV contrast injection so if you have any previous history of allergy to IV contrast media it is safer to perform the exam without IV contrast.
