What are pituitary tumours?

  

 

The pituitary is a small gland attached to the base of the brain behind the nose.  It controls the secretion of hormones.  Pituitary adenomas are tumours that arise from this gland. The large majority of pituitary adenomas are benign (not malignant) and are slow growing.

 

 

 

How do they present?

 

The symptoms of a pituitary tumour generally result from endocrine dysfunction. Hormonal imbalances can impact fertility, heat and cold tolerance, menstrual periods, as well as affect the body in other ways.  Tumours of the pituitary can compress important brain structures such as the optic nerves, leading to a loss of vision.  Occasionally, build-up of fluid (Hydrocephalus) may develop.

 

How are they diagnosed and treated?

 

The history, examination, blood work and CT or MRI scans are necessary to make the diagnosis and guide treatment.  There are 3 types of treatment and these are generally coordinated by a team of doctors including your Neurosurgeon, a specialist in hormonal diseases (Endocrinologist), and an eye doctor (Opthalmologist):

 

1) Surgery

• The transsphenoidal approach accesses the tumour through the nose. This minimally invasive approach has fewer side effects and patients recover more quickly. This can be performed with endoscopes or with stereotactic navigation where computers help guide surgery.
  Patients can leave the hospital as early as two after surgery. 
• The craniotomy is used for larger tumors that cannot be removed through the transsphenoidal approach.

 

2) Medications

 

3) Radiation therapy