68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT Imaging of Refractory Pituitary Macroadenoma Invading the Orbit

In addition to gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms, a wide variety of tumors express somatostatin receptors. Somatostatin receptor imaging, heavily utilized in neuroendocrine oncology, may also have utility in the diagnosis of other neoplasms and raises the possibility of potential therapeutic options. We describe the case of a 60-year-old man who underwent Ga-68-DOTATATE PET/CT, demonstrating an avid invasive pituitary macroadenoma. This mass was persistent and refractory despite traditional treatment options. Because of the avidity, Lu-177-DOTATATE therapy was offered, although not ultimately performed, demonstrating a potential treatment for challenging cases utilizing the principles of theranostics.

Automated summary

Somatostatin receptor imaging, commonly used in neuroendocrine oncology, may have diagnostic utility in various tumors beyond gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. In challenging cases, theranostic principles utilizing somatostatin receptor-based therapy could offer potential treatment options.