The pituitary gland, which is a bean-sized gland, is located in the bone structure called sella turcica behind the nasal root. Prolactin, growth hormone and adrenocorticotropic hormones are secreted from this gland. These are hormones that help important functions from sexual development to bone development, from muscle structure to protection from many diseases. Benign tumors that occur mostly in the anterior part of the pituitary gland are called pituitary tumors. These tumors disrupt the proper functioning of hormones.
Pituitary Tumor Causes – Who Gets Pituitary Tumor?
Pituitary tumor can occur in any age group. However, it is often seen in people between the ages of 30-60. It is the most common primary brain tumor after meningiomas and gliomas. Mostly, tumors with hormone effect are seen in the young group, and tumors without hormone effect are seen in the advanced age group.
Types of Pituitary Tumors and Symptoms of Pituitary Tumors
Prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors: It is the most common type. It is usually seen in women. It secretes hormones that control sexual functions. As a result of excessive secretion, stopping of menstrual bleeding and milk coming from the breast can be seen in women. In men, it can give symptoms such as headache, visual impairment, erectile dysfunction.
Growth hormone secreting pituitary tumors: It is frequently seen in men. It causes giantization in children and enlargement of hands, feet and chin in individuals who have completed growth.
Pituitary tumors that secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone: They are more common in women. It causes excessive secretion of glucocorticoids. This causes Cushing’s disease. Weight gain, diabetes, excessive hair growth, menstrual irregularity, high blood pressure and easy bruising of the skin are the symptoms of this disease.
Pituitary tumors that do not secrete hormones: These tumors usually grow without symptoms. Symptoms of growth, visual disturbance and headache may be seen. Sometimes it can stop the hormones secreted in the pituitary. This can cause fatigue, pallor, and apathy.
Pituitary Tumor Treatment
The treatment method of pituitary tumor differs according to hormonal activity, tumor size and location. The main aim of the treatment is to remove the tumor, shrink it, and return the hormone level to normal.
Pituitary Tumor Surgery
Usually, the tumor is reached through the sphenoid bone using very small instruments. The tumor is removed by reaching the pituitary under the upper lip or nasal canal. Sometimes the skull may need to be opened. Additional treatment may be needed.
Pituitary Tumor Treatment Without Surgery
Excess hormone secretion of tumors can be prevented by drug treatment. Radiotherapy can be used in addition to surgery or drug therapy. The aim is to shrink the tumor and take it under control.
