Could I have a pituitary tumor?

[Confused1978]

I have had 2 mri's of my brain (both with contrast) to determine if I have a prolactinoma.  I have had lactation (without any chance of pregnancy), headaches, migraines, nausea and acne.  Thr MRI shows my pituitary is enlarged and within 1-2mm of the optic chiasm.  However it doesn't say I have any evidence of tumor.  Would it say on the findings that a tumor was detected, or does the enlargement mean there is a tumor?
Thanks for any help

[Daniel M Prevedello, MD]

Dear Confused1978.

People can have benign tumors in the pituitary gland with a normal MRI.
The main question is how elevated was your prolactin. And how about the other pituitary hormones? Are they normal?

If there is somethimng obvious, then the radiologyst usually describe a "pituitary hypointensity" conpatible with microadenoma.

[Daniel M Prevedello, MD]

Dear Confused 1978

Your prolactin level is still normal and it does not mean that is necessarily going up. The level can vary up and down like that in a single day.

The MRI does not necessarily represents an abnormality. It should be repeated in the future to be in the safe side.

[sue3708]

I sent you a message to your inbox....

[Confused1978]

Thanks for your response, it was helpful.  As far as my prolactin, in October 2010 it was 10 (normal), I had it checked last week and it was 27, so technically normal but it's obviously going up.  I don't know about my other hormone levels other than I am currently hyperthyroid.  
This is the exact finding of my MRI: The pituitary is enlarged.  It measures 8mm in maximum height and has an upward convex configuration.  The pituitary does not completely touch the optic chiasm however it comes within 1 or2 mm. There is normal intensity of the posterior pituitary. The pituitary stalk is shortened because of the elevated height of the pituitary.  No filling defects are seen within the enhancing pituitary.  Enhancement is intense and homogenous.  There is no extension into the cavernous sinus.  Flow voids are seen in both cavernous sinuses.  
Impression: There is mild diffuse enlargement of the pituitary measuring 8mm in height with an upward convex shape.
I appreciate your opinion!  Thank you again.