How to Define Success in Prolactinoma Treatment—A Systematic Review and Theoretical Framework
Authors' conclusion
Heterogeneity in reported outcome parameters using varying definitions hampers the comparison of prolactinoma treatment outcomes. This study proposes objective, easily applicable, and clinically relevant definitions of clinical outcomes and offers a comprehensive outcome set. These parameters enable comparison of outcomes across treatment modalities and medical centers to gain insight into this rare disease and improve prolactinoma care.
Study context
- Population
- Studies reporting outcome parameters of prolactinoma treatment, up to February 2, 2024137 articles
- Outcome
- Outcome parameters and definitions reported in the literature
Methodological detailstheoretical framework
- Theoretical framework
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
- Articles included
- 137
- Unique prolactin parameters reported (albeit ill-defined or subjective)
- 23
- Unique radiological parameters reported (albeit ill-defined or subjective)
- 73
- Articles including clinician-reported findings
- 70
- Articles reporting patient-reported outcomes (PROs)
- 0
- Unique definitions of remission
- 27
- Unique definitions of disease control
- 3
- Unique definitions of recurrence
- 20
Further pooled results
Proposed outcome framework
- 2 separate definitions proposed for biochemical (prolactin only) and clinical (incl. symptomology, gonadal function, radiology) remission/recurrence
- Integrated outcome quadrants combining achievement of treatment goals with occurrence of adverse effects
- 3-tier outcome set based on Value-Based Healthcare principles
Original publication
How to Define Success in Prolactinoma Treatment—A Systematic Review and Theoretical Framework. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Published 29 September 2025. doi:10.
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