Imaging the Pituitary

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the optimal technique to image the pituitary. It has several advantages when compared to computed tomography (CT). It does not use ionising radiation. Multiplanar images can be obtained with the pituitary best visualised in the coronal and sagittal planes. MRI also has superior soft tissue contrast. It is contraindicated in patients with pacemakers, some artificical heart valves and in patients with other ferromagnetic implants eg. some surgical clips and embolisation coils. Claustrophobic patients may be unable to tolerate conventional MRI but there are open MRI units available. Direct coronal and axial CT remains the imaging modality of choice in the patients unable to undergo MRI.