Pituitary Gland
The pituitary gland is about the size of a pea and is situated in a bony hollow beneath the base of your brain just below the bridge of your nose. It controls most of the endocrine (hormone) systems in your body. When disorders occur in this gland a variety of problems can appear. If your doctor thinks you have problems in this area (usually discovered with a series of blood tests) they will refer you to a specialist endocrinologist.
There are several conditions which can affect the pituitary, the most common are listed below.
Non-functoning Adenoma
In this condition there is an area of growth within the pituitary. This condition is not associated with oversecretion of any hormones. This condition may be associated with no symptoms, or there may be symptoms related to the resultant increase in size of the pituitary; headache or loss of peripheral vision. Occasionally there may be reduced production of your pituitary hormones and you will require replacement therapy.
Depending on the size of the growth, if it is causing any symptoms or hormone imbalance, it may be decided that it is best to monitor this lesion or you may be offered an operation.
Prolactinoma
This is the most common hormone-producing pituitary lesion. In women it may result in irregular or absent periods and may be discovered during investigations for infertility. People with high prolactin may also experience secretion of milk from their breasts. In men there may be symptoms of low libido or impotence. Prolactinomas can normally be treated with medications such as cabergoline or bromocriptine. Surgery is only very rarely required.
Cushing's Syndrome
This rare condition results from excessive cortisol production. People with Cushing's disease may notice many changes in their body including weight gain especially around their tummy, excessive hair growth and muscle weakness. Cushing's disease is diagnosed with a number of blood tests (occasionally you may need to come into hospital for these) and an MRI scan of your head. This condition usually requires treatment with surgery.
Cushing's disease may also be caused by oversecretion of cortisol by your adrenal glands (see below).
Acromegaly
This is a rare condition associated with too much growth hormone. This typically results in enlargement of features such as hands, feet, head (especially forehead) nose and tongue. It may be associated with headaches, increased sweating, tiredness and joint pains. It is normally diagnosed following a series of blood tests which are taken after you have had a sugary drink. An MRI scan of your pituitary is also normally performed. This condition is normally treated with both surgery and medication, radiotherapy is also occasionally used.
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