Comprehensive Fertility Management After Pituitary Adenoma Surgery: Lessons from a Rural Japanese Case and Practical Review.

Abstract

Background and Clinical Significance: Pituitary adenomas, also termed pituitary neuroendocrine tumors, pose a significant risk of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) after surgical resection, with profound consequences for fertility and sexual function in young patients. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 29-year-old man from rural Japan who developed severe HH and azoospermia following two transsphenoidal resections for a large pituitary adenoma. Despite early engagement with neurosurgery teams, fertility management was delayed by the absence of on-site endocrinology expertise and limited local oncofertility resources. After comprehensive endocrine evaluation and counseling, the patient began combined human chorionic gonadotropin and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone therapy, resulting in full recovery of sexual function and normalization of semen parameters, ultimately leading to spontaneous conception and the birth of a healthy child. Building on this real-world case, we provide a narrative review of current practical management strategies for HH after pituitary surgery, including the utility of hormone-stimulation tests, Japanese guideline-based subsidy systems, and best-practice approaches to hormonal replacement. Conclusions: This case underscores not only the necessity for early, interdisciplinary collaboration and preoperative counseling but also highlights a rare instance in which a patient with a benign tumor received care that did not address his fertility-related needs, emphasizing that such considerations should be integrated into preoperative counseling even for non-malignant conditions. Strengthening regional oncofertility networks and improving healthcare providers' awareness of fertility-preservation options remain essential for improving outcomes.