Definition

A pituitary adenoma is a growth, or tumor, in the pituitary gland. The pituitary is a small gland at the base of the brain. It makes hormones that affect growth and the action of other glands in the body.

Pituitary adenomas are usually not cancer and will not spread to other parts of the body. However, they can lead to vision and growth problems. A pituitary adenoma can also change the balance of hormones of the thyroid, adrenal, and gonad glands.

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Causes

DNA changes cause the growth of a tumor. It is not always clear what causes these changes.

Some tumors are part of other endocrine disorders. These disorder may be caused by genes that are passed down in families. Tumors may also be caused by exposure to cancer-causing substances or radiation.

Risk Factors

The chance of pituitary adenoma may be higher with:

• Family or personal history of multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN1)
• Other inherited disorders such as Carney complex, acromegaly, or gigantism

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary. They will depend on the size of the tumor and if the tumor is sending out hormones. The tumor can also cause problem because it is at the base of the brain. Some may not have any symptoms.

Symptoms due to size may include:

• Headache
• Blurred vision or tunnel vision

A prolactin-secreting adenoma may cause:

• Milk production in nonlactating women
• Loss of or irregular periods
• Lack of interest in sex
• Vaginal dryness

A thyrotropin-secreting adenoma may cause swelling of the neck.

If the adenoma causes hyperthyroidism it may lead to:

• Tremors
• Rapid heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Weight loss
• Insomnia

A corticotropin-secreting adenoma may cause:

• Menstrual disturbance
• Skin changes such as increased facial hair in women, acne, bruising, or bluish stretch marks
• Buffalo hump, an increase in fatty tissue on the back
• Obesity, especially around the wrist
• Round face

A growth hormone-secreting adenoma may cause:

• Enlarged hands and feet
• Excessive growth and height
• Oily skin
• Excess sweating

Pituitary adenomas may also play a role in:

• Diabetes
• Kidney stones
• Cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Osteoporosis

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. A doctor who specializes in glands and hormones is an endocrinologist. Tests that may be done include:

• Blood and urine tests to check hormone levels
• Vision tests
• Images of brain which may be done with an MRI

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the size and impact of the tumor. Tumor that are not causing problems may not need immediate treatment. The doctor will schedule regular exams to track any changes.

Treatment may focus on managing hormone changes caused by the tumor or tumor removal. Several treatment may be used in combination. Treatment choices may include:

Prevention

The cause of pituitary adenoma is not clear so there are no prevention steps.