Rare Case of Misdiagnosed Rathke Pouch Cleft Leading to Severe Visual Loss

A rare case of symptomatic Rathke cleft cyst resulting in severe visual compromise in a young 45 yr/f who presented with gradual progressive painless diminution of vision in both eyes. Patient noticed diminution of vision in the Left eye an year ago and later on in the Right eye for which she consulted ophthalmologists. She was diagnosed as optic neuritis and underwent treatment for the same, but vision didn’t improve. At presentation,vision in Both eyes was same, counting fingers at 2 meters. Pupillary reactions were normal, however there was bilateral disc pallor and rest fundus was normal. On systemic evaluation patient gave history of irregular menstrual periods since 3-4 months. on further investigation her S. Prolactin levels were markedly raised(59.99ng/ml). Radiology showed well defined hyperintense suprasellar lesion. Patient was operated for right frontotemporal craniotomy with decompression of RCCs by a neurosurgeon. 2 months post surgery visual acuity in RE 4/60 and LE is counting finger close to face.

An interesting presentation of pituitary adenoma

Pitutary adenomas are one of the commonest tumors of seller region of which prolactinomas and non- functioning adenomas predominate. The usual presentation are symptoms of endocrine dysfunction and mass effects. We present a case report of 37 year old male presenting with frontal headache and vomiting. Clinical observations revealed frontal bossing with enlarged hands and feet which arose a suspicion of Acromegaly. Investigations revealed elevated IGF 1 (insulin like growth factor) and growth hormone levels. Magnetic resonance image of the brain were done which showed pituitary adenoma. This case highlights the importance of clinical examination and the treating physician must have high clinical index of suspicion to detect endocrine dysfunction and use the modern techniques like stereotactic radio surgery (SRS).