Your pituitary gland is found just under your brain. This pea-sized gland makes hormones that affect many of your body’s functions. A pituitary tumor can cause it to release too little or too much of these hormones, which can cause serious problems.
We aren’t sure how pituitary tumors form. A tumor starts with a mutation in a cell’s DNA. This mutation makes the cell divide abnormally and uncontrollably. A pituitary tumor is a mass of these abnormal cells.
Almost all pituitary tumors are benign (not cancer) glandular tumors called pituitary adenomas. These tumors don’t spread to other parts of the body, like cancers can. Still, even benign pituitary tumors can cause major health problems because:
- They might press on nearby parts of the brain and important nerves.
- They may invade nearby structures (like the skull or the sinuses).
- Many pituitary tumors make excess hormones.
If a pituitary tumor presses against your brain, it can cause headaches and vision loss. Some tumors can change your hormone levels, where you may see more body hair or enlarged hands or feet. You may experience emotional problems like anxiety or depression. It can change your weight, heart rate and digestion.
Treatment depends on your needs. If the tumor is causing problems, you may benefit from surgery, radiation therapy or medications.
Dr. Darakchiev is skilled in the surgical treatment of pituitary adenomas. To schedule a consultation, please call 631-690-9080.
