AIM

To find out the range of pituitary gland volumes in adults in different age groups across both genders by Magnetic Resonance Imaging studies.

INTRODUCTION

Pituitary gland varies in size and shape among both genders, different age groups and also among different races and ethnicity. Pituitary gland volume measurement more reliably detects subtle changes in size which can be pathological. There is lack of data on normal reference values of pituitary gland volumes in Indian population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total 50 apparently healthy individuals were subjected to MRI of pituitary gland. A T1 weighted multiplanar acquisition was performed in sagittal plane with a slice thickness of 3mm.  Pituitary gland was traced on all slices and volume calculated.

RESULTS

The mean pituitary volume found in males was 2.15 cm ³and in females it was 2.21 cm ³. The largest pituitary glands were seen in 41–50 years age group in the male which was significantly larger than that found in female. There was no significant difference in pituitary volume between the two genders at other age groups.

CONCLUSION

Normal values of pituitary glands with gender and age variations were found out in this study. The study helps to recognize subtle pathologies of the pituitary gland but also pave way for better understanding of behavioral and personality related differences among different ethnic groups.