Pituitary tumor

General or Other | - Others | Pituitary tumor (Disease)


Description

Pituitary tumors are common neoplasms, and recognition of their presentation is critical since a favorable therapeutic outcome is dependent on early identification of the lesion. Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths that develop in your pituitary gland.

Some pituitary tumors cause excessive production of hormones that regulate important functions of your body. Other pituitary tumors can restrict normal functions of your pituitary gland, causing it to produce lower levels of hormones. Most pituitary tumors produce too much of one or more hormones.

As a result, symptoms of one or more of the following conditions can occur: Hyperthyroidism, Cushing syndrome, Gigantism or acromegal, Nipple discharge. Symptoms caused by pressure from a larger pituitary tumor may include: Headache, Lethargy, Nasal drainage, Nausea and vomiting, Problems with the sense of smel, Visual changes, Double vision, Drooping eyelids,Visual field loss. Rarely, these symptoms may occur suddenly and can be severe.

Causes and Risk factors

The causes of pituitary tumors are unknown. However, some are part of a hereditary disorder called multiple endocrine neoplasia I (MEN I).

Diagnosis and Treatment

Treatment for pituitary tumors involves various options to either remove the tumor or control its growth. You may also need medications to correct hormone production that is too high or too low. ...