Pituitary Tumors Specialist

What are pituitary tumors?

Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the pituitary gland –– a small, pea-sized gland at the base of your brain that produces certain hormones. Some tumors cause the pituitary gland to overproduce hormones, while others cause it to underproduce hormones. 

Most pituitary tumors aren’t cancerous. As a result, there are various treatment options, including surgical removal, hormone replacement therapy, or a “wait and watch” approach.

What are the symptoms of pituitary tumors?

Symptoms of pituitary tumors include:

• Headache
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Less frequent menstrual cycles
• Unintended weight loss or weight gain

If the tumor remains small, you might not experience any symptoms at all. 

Who is at risk of pituitary tumors?

Anyone can experience a pituitary tumor, but certain factors may increase your risk. For example, most people with pituitary tumors have a family history of certain hereditary conditions, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia –– a group of disorders that affect your endocrine system.

How are pituitary tumors diagnosed?

To diagnose a pituitary tumor, your Fort Wayne Endocrinology provider reviews your health history, asks about your symptoms, and conducts an exam. Afterward, they order several tests, including bloodwork and urinalysis. 

Your provider might also order a CT scan or an MRI of your brain, or vision testing, to determine if the tumor affects your eyesight.

How are pituitary tumors treated?

Treatment of pituitary tumors depends on various factors, including the size of the tumor, your medical history, and the tumors’ effect on your quality of life. If the growth is small and benign, treatment might not be necessary. In fact, your provider might recommend a “wait and watch” approach.

If the pituitary tumor presses on your optic nerve or causes your pituitary gland to overproduce hormones, your provider might recommend removing it. There are several ways to do that, including minimally invasive endoscopic surgery, as well as open surgery, called a craniotomy.

If your pituitary tumor returns following surgical removal, your Fort Wayne Endocrinology provider might recommend radiation therapy or medication. Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and improve your quality of life.

To learn more about the treatment options for pituitary tumors, make an appointment at Fort Wayne Endocrinology by calling the nearest office or scheduling online today.