The pituitary gland sits at the base of the brain, behind the eyes, and controls many of the body’s hormones. Tumours in this region can affect vision, but also any bodily process linked to hormones released in the pituitary, such as energy levels, growth, metabolism, stress, libido and fertility. Because the pituitary is such a vital organ – and sits so close to the optic nerves and the skull base – even small tumours require specialist assessment.
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People may experience headaches, changes in vision (particularly loss of peripheral vision), fatigue, weight changes, menstrual changes, reduced libido, breast discharge (even lactation), mood changes or symptoms related to excess hormone production as a result of pituitary tumours. Some tumours do not produce hormones at all, while others produce too much of a specific hormone, leading to conditions such as acromegaly or Cushing’s disease.
When a pituitary tumour is hormone-producing it is known as ‘functioning’ and ‘non functioning’ when it’s not producing hormones. Most are benign (non-cancerous), but they can still cause problems because of their effect on hormone balance. Rarely, tumours in this region may be malignant or behave aggressively.
These do not spread to other parts of the body, but they can still cause significant symptoms due to pressure on the optic nerves or changes in hormone levels. There are many different types of pituitary tumour:
These are extremely rare but can behave aggressively. Pituitary carcinoma, cancer arising from pituitary tissue, is often diagnosed only when it spreads to other parts of the body
Treatment depends on the tumour type, size, hormone activity and its effect on vision. Many pituitary tumours are treated with endoscopic endonasal surgery (performed through the nostrils with no external incisions), while others may require a combined surgical approach.
Some functioning tumours respond well to medication, and radiotherapy may be used when tumours cannot be fully removed or continue to grow. Long-term follow-up is essential, often involving hormone testing, MRI scans and input from endocrinology, neurosurgery and ophthalmology.
Pituitary tumours are complex conditions that affect both hormone balance and the structures around the skull base; click here to learn more about advanced treatment from the Skull Base Specialists.
