The pituitary gland is a small pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, just below the hypothalamus. Often referred to as the master gland, the pituitary gland plays a vital role in regulating the body’s endocrine system by producing and releasing various hormones. However, tumours in the pituitary gland can cause severe hormonal imbalances. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Piyush Lodha, endocrinologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, said, “It is essential to understand how pituitary tumours can disrupt hormone production and regulation, for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.”
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Understanding Pituitary Tumors
“Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. These tumors can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous), although the majority are benign adenomas. Despite their noncancerous nature, these tumors can have a profound impact on hormone levels and overall health,” explains Dr. Piyush Lodha.
Functioning tumors:
These tumors secrete excessive amounts of hormones, causing conditions such as acromegaly, Cushing’s disease, or hyperthyroidism, depending on which hormone is being overproduced.
Non-functional tumors:
These tumors do not produce hormones themselves, but can still cause problems by putting pressure on the pituitary gland or nearby structures, interfering with normal hormone production.
Hormone imbalances from pituitary tumors can lead to:
Hyperprolactinemia:
Prolactin-secreting tumors cause excessive prolactin production, leading to symptoms such as galactorrhea (unpredictable milk production), irregular menstrual cycles in women, and decreased libido and erectile dysfunction in men.
Acromegaly:
Tumors that secrete growth hormone can cause excessive growth hormone production, resulting in abnormal growth of bones and tissues, especially in the hands, feet, and face.
Cushing’s disease:
Tumors that secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) cause overproduction of cortisol, which leads to weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a characteristic rounded facial appearance known as “moon face.”
Hypopituitarism:
Large non-functioning tumors can put pressure on the pituitary gland, causing decreased secretion of one or more pituitary hormones. This can affect thyroid function (causing hypothyroidism), adrenal function, reproductive function, and overall growth and metabolism.
treatment options:
Some of the treatment options include medications to shrink the tumor or manage hormonal disruptions, transsphenoidal surgery to remove the tumor, and radiation therapy.
Dr. Piyush Lodha said, “Pituitary tumors, despite their benign nature, can cause significant hormonal disruptions, affecting a person’s quality of life. Understanding the types and effects of these tumors is important for early detection and effective treatment. By addressing hormonal imbalances promptly and appropriately, patients can lead a healthy life and manage the symptoms associated with pituitary tumors.”
