PITUITARY TUMOR

 Basic information

description

• Pituitary tumors are usually benign (noncancerous) tumors called adenomas. Other, less-common types may be cancerous. Tumors are also classed as functioning (producing hormones) or nonfunctioning (not producing hormones). The tumors can affect both sexes and all ages, but are more common in ages 30 to 50.
• The pituitary is a small, dime-sized gland located just below the brain. It works with the hypothalamus to regulate body functions from within the brain. Hormones released by the pituitary are used in many of these functions. Hormones released by the pituitary include:
  • Growth hormone—for growth of tissue and bones.
  • Prolactin hormone—for female breast development and milk production.
  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone—used by the thyroid gland for metabolism functions.
  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone—used by the adrenal gland to control blood pressure.
  • Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormones—control sexual function in males and females.
  • Antidiuretic hormone—affects the kidneys in the production of urine.
  • Oxytocin—for contractions of the uterus during childbirth and the release of milk during breast-feeding.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Symptoms may occur due to tumor growth. It can put pressure on eye nerves causing vision problems, headaches, and other symptoms.
• Numerous symptoms may occur due to an over-production or under-production of any of the hormones listed above. No symptoms are specific for diagnosing a tumor. Often, symptoms may go unnoticed, fail to cause alarm, or be attributed to another illness.

causes

Unknown. Some types are part of a hereditary disorder.

risk increases with

Unknown.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures.

expected outcomes

Outcome will depend on the type of tumor, and the patient's age and general health status. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the most favorable outcome.

possible complications

• Spread of the tumor to other parts of the brain.
• Blindness due to pressure from tumor.
• Recurrence of tumor after treatment.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. Medical tests may include cerebrospinal fluid and blood studies, x-rays of the skull, CT scan or MRI of the brain, and vision tests.
• Treatment may involve a combination of surgery to remove the tumor, radiation treatment, hormone therapy, or other drugs.
• Different types of surgery are used to treat the tumors. The procedure depends on the type of tumor, its location, and its size. Your health care provider will explain the options with you.
• Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery. It may also be used for people who, for medical reasons, are not able to have surgery.
• Wear a medical alert type bracelet or neck pendant indicating your hormone deficiencies and their proper treatment.
• To learn more: Pituitary Network Association, PO Box 1958, Thousand Oaks, CA 91358; (805) 499-9973 (not toll-free); website: www.pituitary.org.

medications

• Pain relievers may be prescribed.
• Hormone-replacement drugs may be prescribed. They may require frequent dosage adjustments.
• Drugs to reduce hormone production may be prescribed.
• Anticancer drugs may be prescribed.

activity

Resume your normal activities gradually after surgery.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of a pituitary tumor.
• The following occur after surgery:
  • Bleeding at the surgical site or general signs of infection, such as fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches.
  • Clear discharge from the nose or nosebleeds.

Special Notes: