Why can pituitary tumors cause visual problems?

Marvin Bergsneider, MD on behalf of UCLA Health

Neurosurgery

The pituitary gland is situated right in the back of the nose. It's deep, almost to the middle of the skull. In terms of its anatomy, the most important thing to understand is that it sits just below the optic nerves. Where the optic nerves cross is called the chiasm. As pituitary tumors grow, they can push up on the chiasm and cause visual problems.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

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.

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