The pituitary gland, located in the brain, quietly goes about its business of controlling critical hormones needed by the body. About the size of a pea, it is often called the "master gland" since it tells other glands how much hormone to produce. Although most pituitary tumors are benign, some can grow large and put pressure on the pituitary gland and surrounding areas of the brain. Other pituitary tumors can affect hormone production, which has a significant impact on the body. Recognition of symptoms is critical to early diagnosis and successful treatment.
Types of Pituitary Tumors
Tumors on the pituitary gland fall into two categories. The first is a secretory tumor, which also is referred to as a functioning tumor. This type of tumor is responsible for over-production of hormones. The second type of pituitary tumor is called non-secretory and often causes problems due to its size. A non-secretory tumor presses on surrounding areas of the brain. Both types of tumors can be difficult to diagnose since the symptoms are not consistent from person to person.
Secretory Tumor Symptoms
One type of secretory tumor stimulates the adrenal gland, making it create too much cortisol, causing muscle weakness, weight gain and facial roundness. Another creates too much growth hormone, causing enlargement of feet and hands, excessive sweating and heart conditions. Some tumors cause too much prolactin to be created, which decreases estrogen and testosterone in women and men. Non-pregnant women may produce breast milk while men may experience infertility, impotence and enlarged breasts. Other tumors produce too much thyroid-stimulating hormone, causing hyperthyroidism that brings rapid heartbeat, nervousness and sudden weight loss.
Non-Secretory Tumor Symptoms
This type of tumor is related to its size. As it grows, it presses on the pituitary gland and surrounding areas in the brain. The pituitary gland can stop creating enough hormones and cause hypopituitarism. Symptoms include weight loss, excessive urine output and thirst, nausea and fatigue. Some tumors press on the optic nerve and cause vision loss, nausea and headaches.
Causes
The cause of pituitary tumors is unknown although a small percent appear to be hereditary. A disorder called multiple endocrine neoplasisa I (MEN I) is thought to be involved. This condition is inherited and affects several of the endocrine glands such as thyroid, pancreas, parathyroid, adrenals and pituitary gland. Another hereditary disease thought to increase the likelihood of pituitary tumors is Carney complex. This is a rare and inherited condition that causes tumors in the endocrine glands, heart, nerves and skin.
Treatment
Treatment is dependant on the size and type of tumor, if it is creating hormones, has spread to the brain or there are vision problems. Surgery is commonly used to remove the tumor if it is causing vision loss due to pressure on the optic nerve. Radiation therapy is also used after surgery or as a main treatment. Prescribed medications include cabergoline (Dostinex) and bromocriptine (Parlodel), which can shrink certain tumors and block the excessive release of hormones.
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