First Reported Case of SUNCT Syndrome Resolved by Resection of Pituitary Tumor in Pediatric Patient

Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headaches with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) is one of the trigeminal autonomic cephalgias (TACs), with a suggested relationship to pituitary tumors. In this report, we describe a case of a 14 year-old patient severely disabled in school and daily activities due to headaches. Symptoms were consistent with SUNCT syndrome, which were described as 30–50 daily episodes of sudden, paroxysmal, left-sided orbitofrontal pain, which each lasted 2–5 minute. Concurrent conjunctival injection and tearing were present. Brain MRI and laboratory results were consistent with a non-functional pituitary microadenoma, ipsilateral to the pain. After all other causes of headaches were ruled out, the patient underwent endoscopic transnasal, gross total resection of the pituitary adenoma. Headaches completely resolved and pathology confirmed pituitary adenoma. This is to our account, the first case of a pediatric patient with SUNCT resolution after resection of adenoma.