A pituitary tumor is an abnormal growth in the pituitary gland that controls many bodily functions through hormones. Most are benign (adenomas), slow-growing, and can cause symptoms by either producing excess hormones or pressing on nearby structures like the optic nerves, leading to headaches, vision problems, and hormonal imbalances. Treatment depends on the tumor's type, size, and effects, and may include medication, surgery, or radiation therapy

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Here is a clear, complete, and medically accurate explanation of Pituitary Tumors in simple terms:

Pituitary Tumors – Detailed Overview

What is the Pituitary Gland?

The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized organ located at the base of the brain.
It is called the “master gland” because it controls many hormones in the body, including:

  • Growth hormone

  • Thyroid hormone

  • Adrenal hormones

  • Breast milk production

  • Sex hormones (estrogen/testosterone)

  • Water balance

So, any tumor here can affect many body functions.

What Are Pituitary Tumors?

A pituitary tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the pituitary gland.
Most pituitary tumors are benign (non-cancerous) and grow slowly.

They fall under two main types:

1. Functioning Tumors (Hormone-secreting)

These tumors produce too much of a certain hormone and cause symptoms based on excess hormone.

2. Non-functioning Tumors

These do not produce hormones.
Symptoms occur due to pressure on the surrounding brain structures, especially the optic nerves (vision nerves).

Common Types of Pituitary Tumors

1. Prolactinoma

Produces too much prolactin.
Causes:

  • Irregular periods

  • Infertility

  • Milk discharge

  • Low sex drive

2. Growth Hormone–Secreting Tumor

Leads to:

  • Gigantism in children

  • Acromegaly in adults (enlarged hands, feet, face)

3. ACTH-Secreting Tumor

Causes Cushing’s Disease:

  • Weight gain

  • Moon face

  • High sugar

  • High BP

4. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Tumor (Rare)

Causes overactive thyroid.

5. Non-functioning Adenoma

No hormone production, but enlarges and causes:

  • Vision loss

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue

  • Low hormone levels

Symptoms of Pituitary Tumors

Symptoms due to Hormone Excess

  • Body changes (acromegaly, Cushing’s)

  • Irregular periods / infertility

  • Milk leakage

  • Excessive thirst or urination

Symptoms due to Compression

  • Headache

  • Vision problems (especially “tunnel vision”)

  • Weakness

  • Nausea or vomiting

Symptoms due to Hormone Deficiency

  • Fatigue

  • Weight change

  • Low blood pressure

  • Reduced sex desire

  • Cold intolerance

Diagnosis

1. Blood Hormone Tests

To check abnormal hormone levels.

2. MRI Scan of the Brain

Best test to detect size and location of the pituitary tumor.

3. Vision Examination

To assess optic nerve pressure.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on:

  • Type of tumor

  • Whether it produces hormones

  • Its size

  • Symptoms

1. Medications

Especially for:

  • Prolactinomas → Cabergoline, Bromocriptine
    These can shrink the tumor.

2. Surgery

Transsphenoidal surgery (through the nose) is commonly done.
Used for:

  • Large tumors

  • Tumors compressing optic nerves

  • Hormone-secreting tumors (except prolactinoma)

3. Radiation Therapy

Used if:

  • Surgery is not possible

  • Tumor remains after surgery

  • Tumor grows again

4. Hormone Replacement

If the pituitary gland function reduces, patients may need:

  • Thyroid hormones

  • Steroids

  • Sex hormones

  • Growth hormone (rarely)

Prognosis

Most pituitary tumors:

  • Grow slowly

  • Are treatable

  • Have excellent recovery with proper care

Regular monitoring (MRI + hormone tests) may be needed.

Want a Different Format?

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✔ A comparison of all pituitary disorders
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