Pituitary Tumor
Pituitary tumors interfere with our bodys ability to produce hormones that helps us grow, regulate our sugar levels and control our body temperature.
Scientists call the pituitary gland the master endocrine gland because it produces hormones that regulate other organs and many of our body functions. When tumors form, they cause the pituitary gland to make excessive or deficient amounts of certain hormones such as thyroid-stimulating hormone, which regulates our heart rate.
Typically slow growing, pituitary tumors are rarely cancerous but can still spread to other parts of the body. Because of the gland's location in the center of the brain, doctors must surgically remove these tumors to relieve brain pressure. You may also need medications to return your hormones back to normal.
Early detection is the key to success. See your doctor if you have unexplained weight loss, blurry vision, sexual dysfunction, irregular heart beat or muscle weakness.
Recently Answered
- Q What is a pituitary adenoma?
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Dr. Patrick Maguire, OncologyPituitary adenomas are benign tumors that account for 10% to 15% of primary brain tumors. Roughly 75% are functional, meaning that they produce hormones, and the other 25% are nonfunctional. Functional adenomas may be treated with medications, depending... Full Answer
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- Q When do symptoms of pituitary tumors show up?
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Symptoms arise when the tumors cause either excess or reduced production of pituitary hormones or when the tumor presses on adjacent structures. Symptoms and changes in bodily function vary depending upon which lobe of the pituitary gland is... Full Answer
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- Q What does surgery through the nose for pituitary tumors involve?
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The two main surgical techniques for removing pituitary tumors are transnasal transphenoidal adenomectomy and transcranial adenomectomy. The transnasal transphenoidal is the preferred surgical management for the majority of pituitary tumors. The... Full Answer
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- Q Should I talk to my doctor about a pituitary tumor?
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Talk to your doctor about a pituitary tumor if you are experiencing any hormonal imbalances or vision problems. Pituitary tumors can cause such problems as headaches, nausea, low sex drive, excessive sweating, rapid weight loss or gain, and more. People... Full Answer
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- Q How is pituitary tumor treated?
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The treatment options for a pituitary tumor depend on several factors, including the size and location of the tumor. Surgery is often recommended if a tumor is creating pressure on the optic nerve and disrupting a person's vision. The majority of the... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of pituitary tumors?
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The symptoms of a pituitary tumor include both physical and biochemical issues. Headaches, vision problems, lethargy, changes in a person's sense of smell, and nausea are all symptoms of pituitary tumors. Because an affected pituitary gland will... Full Answer
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- Q Do children grow out of a pituitary tumor?
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Children do not grow out of a pituitary tumor. Pituitary tumors are rare in children-but they do happen. If they are left untreated-they will not go away. However,it is possible that a child will have a pituitary tumor that never presents any symptoms. Full Answer
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- Q How do pituitary tumors affect oral health in women?
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Although rare, pituitary tumors that develop in women could cause an abundance of growth hormone and skeletal bone growth, called acromegaly or gigantism. This can lead to the overgrowth of facial bones, including the jaw, which in turn could cause teeth... Full Answer
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- Q How common is a pituitary tumor?
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Pituitary tumors are extremely common. Approximately 20% of all people have one. However, the majority of these growths are benign, meaning that they not cancerous. Also, many people never experience any symptoms and therefore never receive a diagnosis... Full Answer
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- Q How does a pituitary tumor affect the body?
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A pituitary tumor can affect the body by disrupting the normal activities of the pituitary gland and creating imbalances in the hormonal system. Known as functioning tumors, some pituitary tumors even produce hormones themselves. Physical affects of... Full Answer
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