A scoping review to understand the indications, effectiveness, and limitations of cabergoline in radiological and biochemical remission of prolactinomas

Abstract

Cabergoline has long been used in the medical management of prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas. However, there is contradicting and inadequate evidence on the efficacy of cabergoline in achieving radiological and biochemical remission in prolactinoma. This article presents scoping review of evidence in cabergoline achieving radiological and biochemical remission in cases of prolactinoma. We have used a recommended scoping review methodology to map and summarize existing research evidence and identify knowledge gaps. The review process was conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews). The selection of studies was based on the criteria defined. Essential information such as reference details, study characteristics, topics of interest, main findings, and the study author's conclusion are presented in text and tables. With the study selection process, eight publications were finally included-one systematic review and meta-analysis, one RCT, and six primary studies. Cabergoline is effective in achieving biochemical and radiological remission in cases of prolactinoma. We identified several knowledge gaps with the scoping review and directions for future studies. Future studies, including randomized studies, will help address challenging questions associated with the management of prolactinoma.

Keywords: Cabergoline; dopamine agonist; hyperprolactinemia; prolactin levels; prolactinoma.

Figure 1

PRISMA flow chart showing a screening of studies, selection, final, and exclusion of the studies

Figure 2

The algorithm on the practice model for management of prolactinoma