Effect of risperidone on prolactinoma growth in a psychotic woman.

OBJECTIVE

The case of a psychotic woman is described in which risperidone use was found to correspond with an increase in the size of a prolactinoma and prevented the return of serum prolactin level to baseline.

METHODS

Although the patient had been treated with a high dose of bromocriptine, her prolactin level remained elevated, causing persistent galactorrhea. The patient later was treated with olanzapine and carbamazepine successfully.

RESULTS

This case report highlights the role of risperidone on prolactin and discusses alternative methods of treating psychosis when the etiology is unclear, especially in younger patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors recommend that additional studies regarding the relationship between the growth of prolactinoma and atypical antipsychotics would be worthwhile.