What are pituitary tumors?
Pituitary tumors are growths that develop in the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized structure located at the base of the brain. It produces hormones that regulate many important body functions, including growth, blood pressure, reproduction, and metabolism.
Pituitary tumors are usually benign, meaning they're not cancerous. However, they can cause serious health problems if they press on nearby structures or produce excess hormones.
Signs and symptoms of pituitary tumors
Pituitary tumors often don't cause any symptoms. When they do, the symptoms may be caused by the pressure of the tumor on nearby structures, or by the excess production of hormones.
The most common symptoms of a pituitary tumor include:
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Headaches
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Vision problems
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Nausea and vomiting
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Unexplained weight gain or loss
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Changes in menstrual cycles
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Loss of libido
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Sexual dysfunction
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Fatigue
These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to see your doctor if you're experiencing any of them.
Causes of pituitary tumors
Most pituitary tumors are benign, meaning they're not cancerous. However, in some cases, a pituitary tumor can be cancerous.
The exact cause of pituitary tumors is unknown.
However, there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing one, including:
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A family history of pituitary tumors
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Certain genetic conditions, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)
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Radiation therapy to the head
Risk factors for pituitary tumors
There are some factors that may increase your risk of developing a pituitary tumor, including:
- A family history of pituitary tumors
- Certain genetic conditions, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)
- Radiation therapy to the head
Prevention of pituitary tumors
There's no known way to prevent pituitary tumors. However, if you have a family history of pituitary tumors, you may be able to reduce your risk by taking steps to avoid exposure to radiation.
Diagnosis of pituitary tumors
Pituitary tumors are often found during a routine physical exam or imaging test for another condition.
However, if your doctor suspects you have a pituitary tumor, they may order one or more of the following tests:
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A physical exam
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A blood test
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An MRI or CT scan
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A PET scan
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A biopsy
Treatment of pituitary tumors
The treatment for a pituitary tumor depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as whether it's cancerous or benign.
In some cases, no treatment is necessary. If the tumor is small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it with regular imaging tests.
If the tumor is larger or causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend:
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Surgery to remove the tumor
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Radiation therapy
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Chemotherapy
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Targeted therapy
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Hormone therapy
Coping and support for pituitary tumors
A diagnosis of a pituitary tumor can be difficult to cope with. You may experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, fear, and sadness.
It's important to find a support system to help you through this time. You may find support from family and friends, or from a support group for people with pituitary tumors.
Complications of pituitary tumors
Pituitary tumors can cause a number of complications, including:
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Vision problems
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High blood pressure
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Headaches
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Diabetes
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Hypothyroidism
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Cushing's disease
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Acromegaly
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Pituitary apoplexy
Living with pituitary tumors
If you have a pituitary tumor, it's important to work with your doctor to manage your symptoms and complications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the tumor.
You may also need to take hormone replacement therapy if the tumor has caused your body to stop producing hormones.
It's also important to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. This can help to reduce your risk of complications, such as diabetes.
