Understanding Pituitary Tumours: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
The pituitary gland, known as the “master gland,” regulates hormones that govern growth, metabolism and reproduction. This delicate balance can be disrupted when a pituitary tumour develops, resulting in a cascade of health challenges. So, what exactly is a pituitary tumour? The most common type of pituitary growths are called tumours, most of which are benign (non-cancerous), that develop on the pituitary gland and can disrupt hormone production, resulting in symptoms that can vary with both the size and type of the tumour.
In this post, we will take a closer look at the symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatment methods for you to better understand the ways to manage this condition as best as possible.
What Are Pituitary Tumours?
Pituitary tumours (also called pituitary adenomas) are unusual growths that form on the pituitary gland. They tend to be benign (non-cancerous), but can still pose serious health challenges by interfering with hormone production or pressing on structures nearby, like the optic nerve.
The pituitary gland, at the base of the brain, releases hormones that regulate the following:
- Growth
- Thyroid function
- Adrenal gland activity
- Reproductive health
- Water balance in the body
A benign pituitary tumour can either secrete too much hormone or compress normal pituitary tissue, disrupting normal pituitary function with hormonal dysregulation.
What Are Some Common Pituitary Tumours?
Symptoms of pituitary tumours vary based on whether or not the tumour is secreting hormones. Some tumours cause trouble because they press on nearby parts of the brain; others take the form of hormonal upsets.
Hormone-Related Symptoms
- Prolactinomas (high prolactin):
- Women: Abnormal menstruation, unexpected milk production, infertility.
- Men: Decreased sex drive, impotence, breast growth.
- Women: Abnormal menstruation, unexpected milk production, infertility.
- Growth Hormone-Secreting Tumours:
- Children: Gigantism (excessive growth).
- Adults: Acromegaly (enlarged hands, feet, and face).
- Children: Gigantism (excessive growth).
- Pituitary ACTH-secreting tumours (Cushing’s disease):
- Weight gain (particularly in the abdominal area).
- Hypertension, mood changes, excessive hair growth (on the face or body) in women.
- Weight gain (particularly in the abdominal area).
- ADH deficiency (Diabetes Insipidus):
- Intense thirst and frequent urination.
- Intense thirst and frequent urination.
Pressure-Related Symptoms
- Changes to vision (blurry or double vision or loss of peripheral vision).
- Headaches.
- Nausea and vomiting (if the tumour obstructs cerebrospinal fluid flow).
Common Pituitary Tumour Symptoms
If you are having any pituitary tumour symptoms, you should consult your doctor without delay.
How Are Pituitary Tumours Diagnosed?
Pituitary Tumours Treatment
In diagnosing a pituitary tumour, a series of tests are required to help evaluate hormone levels and visualise the growth.
- Blood Tests:
- Hormone levels (prolactin, growth hormone, cortisol, etc.).
- Identify deficiencies or overproduction.
- Imaging Scans:
- MRI Scan: A great choice to detect their presence.
- CT Scan: Used if MRI diagnostic Imaging is not available or contraindicated (e.g., patients with pacemakers).
- Vision Tests:
Visual field testing checks if the tumour is pressing on the optic nerve.
Improving treatment outcomes by catching the condition early means that consulting an endocrinologist is vital if you notice any signs or symptoms.
Treatment will depend on the size, type, and hormonal activity of the tumour.
Surgery for Pituitary Gland Tumours:
- Transsphenoidal Surgery: Most common procedure, in which surgeons remove the tumour through the nose or upper lip.
- Craniotomy: Necessary for larger tumours that cannot be reached via the nose.
- Recovery: Most patients recover in weeks, but hormone replacement may be necessary.
Medications for Pituitary Tumours:
- Prolactinomas: Dopamine agonists (e.g., Bromocriptine, Cabergoline).
- Growth hormone-secreting tumours: Somatostatin analogues (e.g., Octreotide).
- Cushing’s disease: Drugs to stop cortisol production.
Radiotherapy:
Used if surgery hasn’t completely worked, or for aggressive tumours.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife): Focused radiation.
Fractionated radiotherapy: For larger tumours.
Prognosis and Recovery
A favourable prognosis is typically seen in pituitary gland tumours, particularly where they are diagnosed early and treated appropriately.
- Small tumours: Good cure rates with surgery or medication.
- Larger tumours (>5 cm): These are more likely to be malignant and may require management beyond aspiration.
- Long-term care: You will need regular checks of hormone levels and visits with an endocrinologist.
At Chase Lodge Hospital, our expert team delivers tailored care to support patients in the management of their condition.
Conclusion
Pituitary tumours are usually benign, but can greatly affect health if untreated. Knowing the symptoms such as hormonal changes or vision problems, for instance can help with faster diagnosis and improved outcomes.
If you suspect that you have a pituitary tumour, you should speak to a relevant specialist for appropriate testing and treatment. Most patients do well due to advanced surgical techniques, medication, and radiotherapy.
Reach out to Chase Lodge Hospital for expert pituitary care and support!
