What is the pituitary?
Several hormones are produced by the pituitary, a gland in the head. These hormones function as “slow-acting messengers” that are transported throughout the body by the bloodstream and aid in controlling the rest of the body.
The pituitary is situated directly beneath the brain and behind the eyes. The optic nerve, which converts light entering your eyes into brain signals that enable vision, may be pushed if it grows.
What is a pituitary tumour?
An aberrant growth of the pituitary gland is called a pituitary tumor, or adenoma. Since the tumor is typically benign (not cancerous), it will typically grow slowly and not spread to other parts of the body.
Depending on whether the tumor interferes with your hormone production, pituitary tumors can be of several types:
- The most prevalent kind of secreting tumor is a prolactin-producing tumor, which can result in impotence, decreased sex drive, and, in women, the cessation of monthly periods.
- Cushing’s syndrome, which can result in weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and increased facial hair in women, is brought on by a tumor that secretes steroids.
- Acromegaly, a growth hormone-secreting tumor, can result in diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and abnormal growth of the hands and feet.
- Palpitations, anxiety, and weight loss can all be symptoms of a tumor that secretes TSH.
All forms of pituitary tumors have the potential to press on the optic nerve and impair vision, but non-secreting tumors do not produce hormonal symptoms. A pituitary tumor can harm pituitary tissue and lead to hormone insufficiency if it gets big enough.
How are pituitary tumours diagnosed?
Several tests may be used to diagnose pituitary tumors, including:
- Blood tests to determine whether your hormone levels are normal
- eye tests to determine whether the optic nerve is under any pressure
- imaging, such as an MRI or CT scan, to obtain a comprehensive image of the tissues and organs inside your head and determine the location and size of any tumors
Why do pituitary tumors occur?
Pituitary tumors have no known cause. Some people have a family history of pituitary tumor growth. Scientists are now investigating the possibility that a genetic mutation is the cause of tumors.
What is the treatment for pituitary tumors?
Surgery is typically used to remove pituitary tumors. Usually, this entails going through the nose to the region where the pituitary gland is located. In addition to correcting or preventing additional hormone imbalances, removing the tumor will also prevent any damage to the eyes that may result from the tumor pressing on the optic nerve.
The risks of surgery include:
- bleeding
- leakage of brain fluid
- nasal pain or blockage
- decreased sense of smell
- a small risk of blindness or double vision
If the pituitary tumor is located away from the optic nerve, radiotherapy may be used to treat it. If surgery was unable to remove the tumor, this might also be a necessary treatment.
Lastly, if the tumor has permanently damaged your pituitary gland, you may be prescribed medication to control your hormone production either in the short term while you wait for surgery or in the long term.
Which specialist handles pituitary tumors?
Typically, a multidisciplinary team consisting of an:
- endocrinologist (a specialist in hormonal matters)
- a neurosurgeon (to talk about surgical intervention)
- A neuro-oncologist (to talk about radiation)