Thyrotropin-secreting pituitary macroadenoma presented with pulmonary embolism

Although studies have indicated that hyperthyroidism is associated with pulmonary embolism, an association with thyroid stimulating hormone-producing pituitary adenoma (TSHoma) and pulmonary embolism has not been reported so far. A 43 year-old man hospitalized in the pulmonary diseases department with the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. Thyroid function tests revealed increased thyroid hormone concentrations in the presence of inappropriately elevated serum TSH levels. Pituitary magnetic resonance imaging showed a 15 mm macroadenoma. Serum concentrations of the alpha-subunit of TSH (αTSH) and the αTSH/TSH molar ratio were 2.7 IU/L and 2.7, respectively. He underwent transsphenoidal adenomectomy with the diagnosis of TSHoma. Histopathological staining confirmed the diagnosis of TSHoma. We report an unusual case of pulmonary embolism accompanying TSHoma. TSHoma, like other causes of hyperthyroidism, may be associated with pulmonary embolism. J. Exp. Clin. Med., 2014; 31:55-57