Pituitary Tumours: What Are The Symptoms And How They Are Treated

Glands are vital organs within the human body responsible for producing and releasing substances or hormones that perform specific functions. Situated at the base of the skull, below the brain and above the nasal passages, the pituitary gland connects to a part of the brain. However, even slight changes or abnormal growth in the pituitary gland can lead to the development of a pituitary tumour. Research indicates that the majority of these tumours are benign, not spreading to other body parts. While typically non-cancerous, they can grow into nearby structures and, at times, produce excessive hormones, affecting normal bodily functions.

Symptoms of Pituitary Tumors

Referred to as neuroendocrine tumours of the pituitary gland, these tumours may cause the formation of cysts in young patients, leading to above-average growth in height. In adults, excess hormone secretion results in the enlargement of facial features, hands, and other body parts, accompanied by a hoarse voice. Furthermore, an overproduction of cortisol in the liver may result in obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which are indicative symptoms of pituitary tumours. Tumours larger than 2 to 2.5 cm may manifest symptoms such as visual disturbances and headaches.

These tumours can compress the normal pituitary gland, causing a decrease in the secretion of essential hormones like thyroid, cortisol, and sex hormones.

Treatment of Pituitary Tumors

In many cases, doctors recommend a single or combination of treatments, including surgery to remove the tumour through the nasal cavity, radiation to eliminate abnormal cells, and medication to restore hormone levels. Patients experiencing excessive prolactin secretion, a lactation stimulant, may be treated with medication, while others might undergo nasal endoscopy.

Radiation therapy is also a recommended treatment option, aimed at controlling tumor growth. This therapy is employed to eliminate small-sized tumours post-surgery and, in some cases, where surgery is not necessary. Continuous treatment throughout life may be advised by doctors, as these tumours can persist and grow even after surgery and initial treatments.

Understanding the symptoms and available treatments for pituitary tumours is crucial for timely intervention and effective management of these potentially disruptive health conditions.