ABOUT THE DISEASE

Pituitary Microadenomas are abnormal growths that develop in pituitary gland. Most pituitary tumors are noncancerous (benign) growths (adenomas). They do not spread to other parts of the body.

Tumors measuring less than a cm (10mm) in diameter are termed as microadenomas. The larger ones, measuring 1 cm or more, are called macroadenomas.

SYMPTOMS

• • Headache
• • Vision loss, particularly loss of peripheral vision
• • Nausea and vomiting
• • Weakness
• • Less frequent or no menstrual periods
• • Sexual dysfunction
• • If secreting hormones, may cause acromegaly, cushing disease, hyperthyroidism, etc

CAUSES

The pituitary gland is a small, bean-shaped gland situated at the base of brain. The hormones it produces help regulate important functions, such as growth, blood pressure and reproduction. The cause of uncontrolled cell growth in the pituitary gland, which creates a tumor, is not known.

A small percentage of pituitary tumor cases run in families, but most have no apparent hereditary factor. It is believed that genetic alterations may play a role in their development.

DIAGNOSIS

- Physical Examination
- Blood and urine test
- CT scan or MRI scan of brain
- Vision testing

TREATMENT METHODS

Treatment plan is made on the basis of type of tumor, its size, symptoms, and age and overall health of patient.

If small, inactive and asymptomatic, it may not require any treatment.

Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy and medications, either alone or in combination.

You may also like to learn about:

Brain tumor
Acromegaly
Cushings syndrome
Prolactinoma
Vision impairment/Blindness
Headache