Understanding Pituitary Disorders: A Patient's Guide

What is the Pituitary Gland?

The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized organ located at the base of your brain. Often called the "master gland," it produces hormones that control many other endocrine glands in your body.

Common Pituitary Conditions

1. Pituitary Tumors

• Prolactinomas: Most common type, causing irregular periods and milk production
• Growth Hormone-Secreting Tumors: Can lead to acromegaly
• ACTH-Secreting Tumors: May cause Cushing's disease

2. Hypopituitarism

• Decreased hormone production
• Can affect multiple hormones or single hormones
• May require hormone replacement therapy

3. Hyperpituitarism

• Excessive hormone production
• Usually caused by tumors
• Can affect growth, metabolism, and reproduction

Common Symptoms

• Headaches
• Vision changes
• Fatigue
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Growth changes
• Weight fluctuations
• Mood changes

Diagnostic Methods

• Blood hormone testing
• MRI imaging
• Vision testing
• Growth monitoring

Treatment Options

1. Medication

   • Hormone replacement
   • Tumor-shrinking drugs

2. Surgery

   • Transsphenoidal surgery
   • Craniotomy (less common)

3. Radiation Therapy

   • Used for certain tumors
   • May be combined with other treatments

Living with Pituitary Conditions

• Regular medical monitoring
• Hormone level checks
• Lifestyle modifications
• Support group participation