Pituitary Disorders

The pituitary is a small but potent gland commonly called the master gland of the brain. Although it’s only pea-sized, it produces hormones that regulate other glands and organs throughout the entire body. It sits at the bottom of the brain behind the bridge of your nose. When it does not work properly, it can affect many parts and systems of the body, such as thyroid function, growth, and skin pigmentation.

If you have been diagnosed with a pituitary disorder or are concerned you may have one, our team can help. Here’s what you need to know, including how we diagnose and treat pituitary disorders.

What is a Pituitary Disorder?

Pituitary disorders are endocrine disorders that develop when the gland fails to produce the proper amounts of certain hormones. Often, a pituitary tumor is the cause of these disorders. While most pituitary tumors are benign, they can cause a wide variety of problems. Diagnosing a pituitary disorder early on can help you receive proper treatment and avoid future complications.

Types of Pituitary Disorders

Pituitary Disroders are wide-ranging and can include the following:

• Acromegaly – Occurs when a usually benign (noncancerous) pituitary tumor produces too much growth hormone, leading to enlarged bones and tissues.

• Cushing’s Disease – Results from a pituitary tumor producing an excessive amount of the ACTH hormone, elevating blood cortisol levels.

• Diabetes Insipidus – While unrelated to diabetes mellitus, this condition arises when the pituitary produces an inadequate amount of the ADH hormone, leading to excessive thirst and urination.

• Rathke’s Cleft Cyst – This cyst can disrupt hormones or cause vision problems.

• Prolactinoma – The most common hormone-producing tumor in the pituitary gland, it produces excessive amounts of prolactin, affecting sex hormones and metabolism.

• Hypopituitarism – An underactive pituitary gland that affects hormone production throughout the body.

• Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) – Insufficient growth hormone production, impacting bone and organ development.

• Nonfunctioning Pituitary Adenoma – A slow-growing tumor that does not produce extra hormones but can press on brain structures, especially the nerves responsible for vision.

Symptoms of Pituitary Disorder

Symptoms vary depending on the type and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Vision problems (e.g., blurred or double vision)
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Weight gain
• Abnormal growth
• Hyperprolactinemia (excessive or unexpected production of breast milk)
• Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosing a Pitiutary Disorder

The Intent Medical Group team utilizes hormone blood tests, often conducted over a day to check different hormone levels. An MRI scan may also be required to identify abnormalities in the pituitary gland.

Causes of Pituitary Disorders

Pituitary disorders can affect individuals of any age, sex, or race. Possible causes include:

• Genetic conditions
• Noncancerous tumors
• Traumatic head injury
• Cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy

Treatment for Pituitary Disorders

Treatment depends on the cause. Hormone deficiencies may be treated with medication. Benign tumors are often removed surgically through endonasal surgery. In rare cases of cancerous or aggressive tumors, radiation therapy may be necessary after surgical removal. 

The Intent Medical Group team prioritizes early diagnosis and treatment with the goal of preventing long-term complications. Our team of experts uses cutting-edge technology and treatments to provide comprehensive and personalized care tailored to your needs. You are at the center of your care, and our team is ready for you.

Expertise from the Intent Medical Group

Our specialists treat all types of pituitary tumors and related conditions, providing advanced treatments backed by extensive experience. Dr. Amin Kassam, director of Intent Medical Group, is one of the most experienced endoscopic pituitary surgeons worldwide. The multidisciplinary Intent Medical Group team includes endocrinologists, neurosurgeons, neuro-ophthalmologists, and ENT surgeons, providing a collaborative approach to care.

Advanced Diagnostic and Treatment Options

Intent Medical Group offers a range of diagnostic and treatment options, including endoscopic endonasal surgery, which allows for minimally invasive removal of pituitary tumors. This state-of-the-art technique involves accessing the pituitary gland through the nasal passages, which can result in shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries.

Our team also provides comprehensive hormonal evaluations and treatments to manage hormonal deficiencies and excesses associated with pituitary tumors. The expertise of the Intent Medical Group team helps provide patients with personalized care focused on improving long-term outcomes and quality of life.