[Genetics of familial pituitary adenomas].

Pituitary adenomas were previously thought to be rare. However, a recent cross-sectional study conducted in Liège, Belgium, showed that clinically apparent pituitary adenomas were present in about 1 in 1000 inhabitants, which is 4 to 5 times the previously reported prevalence. Pituitary adenomas are generally sporadic, but some are associated with familial-isolated tumoral syndromes (mainly MEN1 and Carney complex). With the recent characterization of FIPA (Familial Isolated Pituitary Adenomas), familial pituitary adenomas are now thought to account for 5% to 8% of all pituitary tumors. New genetic mechanisms are being identified, improving our understanding of the complex manifestations and sometimes unpredictable outcome of pituitary adenomas.