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Pituitary tumor

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Alternative Names:

Tumor - pituitary

Treatment:

Pituitary tumors are usually not cancerous and therefore won't spread to other areas of the body. However, they can cause serious problems by putting pressure on the brain. Surgical removal is often necessary, particularly if the tumor is pressing on the optic nerves, which could cause blindness.

Most of the time, pituitary tumors can be removed through a transsphenoidal procedure -- the surgeon accesses the tumor through your nose and sinuses. However, some tumors cannot be removed this way and will require transcranial (through the skull) removal.

Radiation therapy may be used to shrink the tumor, either in combination with surgery or for people who cannot undergo surgery. Medications may shrink certain types of tumors:

• Bromocriptine or cabergoline are the first-line therapy for tumors that secrete prolactin. These drugs decrease prolactin levels and shrink the tumor.
• Somatostatin analogs are sometimes used for tumors that secrete growth hormone, particularly when surgery is unlikely to result in a cure.

Support Groups:

The Pituitary Network Association -- www.pituitary.org

Expectations (prognosis):

If the tumor can be surgically removed, the probable outcome is fair to good, depending upon whether the entire tumor was removed.

Complications:

The most serious complication is blindness, which can occur if the optic nerve is seriously damaged.

Permanent hormonal imbalances may be caused by the tumor or its removal. This may require replacement of the affected hormones.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you develop any symptoms of a pituitary tumor.

References:

Ezzat S, Asa SL, Couldwell WT, et al. The prevalence of pituitary adenomas. Cancer . 2004 Aug 1;101(3):613-9. Review.

• Review Date: 8/11/2006
• Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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