Pituitary Tumor Overview

Pituitary tumors are unusual growths that develop in the pituitary gland, a pea-sized endocrine organ located at the base of the brain. The pituitary gland produces and releases hormones that control many vital bodily processes, including blood pressure, fluid balance, stress response, growth, metabolism and reproduction.

Often referred to as the body’s “master gland,” the pituitary organ plays a central role in coordinating the various components of the endocrine system. Serving as chemical messengers, pituitary hormones control the function of other endocrine glands, including the thyroid and adrenal glands, signaling them to release their hormones into the bloodstream when needed.

Pituitary cancer is exceedingly rare. Almost all pituitary tumors are benign (noncancerous) glandular tumors (pituitary adenomas) that will not spread to other areas of the body. Even so, both cancerous and noncancerous skull base tumors can potentially cause significant health issues by:

• Pressing on sensitive brain tissues and nerves
• Invading nearby structures, such as the skull or sinuses
• Producing excess hormones

Noncancerous pituitary tumors are relatively common, with recent studies suggesting that up to 1 in 4 people may have a small, asymptomatic tumor. However, most pituitary tumors do not cause noticeable health issues or require medical attention.

Although it's not considered cancer, pituitary tumors have serious consequences to body function beyond appearance.

Dr. Andre Beer Furlan

Neurosurgeon

What causes pituitary tumors?

Most pituitary tumors occur spontaneously without a clear, identifiable cause. In general, they begin when healthy pituitary cells undergo harmful changes that cause the cells to grow uncontrollably. Excess abnormal cells then build up, bind together and form tumors in the pituitary gland.

What are the risk factors for pituitary tumors?

Known risk factors for pituitary tumors include certain rare inherited genetic conditions that increase the risk of many health issues. These include:

• Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 4 (MEN4)
• Carney complex
• McCune-Albright syndrome

Scientists have not linked pituitary tumors to any environmental or lifestyle factors.

What are the signs and symptoms of pituitary tumors?

Pituitary tumors can produce a variety of symptoms depending on the size of the tumor and whether it affects hormone production. General symptoms can include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Peripheral vision loss, double vision and other vision problems
• Ear, sinus or facial pain or pressure
• Seizures

Additionally, hormonal imbalances caused by a pituitary tumor may cause:

• Weakness, fatigue and lack of energy
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Irregular menstrual periods in women
• Erectile dysfunction in men

How are pituitary tumors diagnosed?

Pituitary tumors are typically diagnosed through a combination of tests, which may include:

• Physical examination, medical history and symptom review
• Imaging scans, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Blood work and urinalysis to measure hormone levels
• Ophthalmologic examination to check for vision problems related to the tumor

How are pituitary tumors treated?

Pituitary tumor treatment can vary depending on the size of the tumor and whether it affects hormone production. Common options include:

• Observation – For a small, asymptomatic tumor, a “wait and watch” approach consisting of regular monitoring with imaging and hormone testing may be sufficient.
• Surgery – Surgical removal of the tumor may be considered, especially if it is causing disruptive symptoms or compressing nearby structures, such as the optic nerve.
• Medications – Drugs may be prescribed to shrink the tumor or regulate hormone production.
• Radiation therapy – High-energy beams may be administered before surgery to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove, or as a standalone treatment if surgery is not possible or effective.

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

Moffitt offers the latest diagnostic, treatment and supportive care services for patients with skull base tumors, which develop near sensitive brain tissues and can be challenging to treat. Our renowned Neuro-Oncology Program is home to a multispecialty team of neurosurgeons, head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists, endocrinologists and supportive care specialists who take a comprehensive, collaborative approach to care. Known for its focused expertise in pituitary tumors, our tumor board meets regularly to review complex cases and provide individualized recommendations.

If you would like to learn more about pituitary tumors, you can request an appointment with a specialist at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488  or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.