Choosing the right treatment option is not easy, especially when an individual is suffering from a pituitary tumour. The pituitary gland is a pea-sized organ located at the base of the brain that is a crucial part of the human body. It regulates various body functions by producing several hormones that influence reproduction, metabolism, growth, and stress responses.
The formation of tumours in the pituitary gland can disturb these essential functions, leading to a wide range of symptoms and health concerns. Here, we will explore different types of pituitary tumours and how early treatment is necessary.
Types of Pituitary Tumors
Some pituitary tumours are cancerous, while most of them are non-cancerous or benign. However, non-cancerous individuals can also affect health depending on their size, location, and the type of hormones they produce. Let’s understand the types of pituitary tumours there and their impact on the body.
Non-Functioning Pituitary Tumors (NFPTs)
Non-functioning pituitary tumours are the most common type found in patients. They grow slowly and may not cause immediate symptoms. However, the growth may affect nearby areas, such as the optic nerves, leading to visual problems or long-term headaches.
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Although these tumours do not secrete hormones, they can cause hormonal imbalances if they compress normal pituitary tissue. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain or loss, and imbalanced blood sugar levels.
Growth Hormone-Secreting Tumors (Acromegaly)
Excess growth hormone produced by a pituitary tumour can cause acromegaly in adults or gigantism in children. Acromegaly leads to abnormal bone and tissue growth, which can be clearly visible. This happens especially in the hands, feet, face, jaw, forehead, and nose.
However, delay in treatment in the long term can cause heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The primary treatment options are blocked hormone production, radiation therapy or surgical removal of tumours.
Cushing's Disease (ACTH-Producing Tumors)
In this type, the pituitary tumour produces excess adrenocorticotropic hormone or ACTH, which leads the adrenal gland to make excessive amounts of cortisol. An increase in cortisol can:
- Weight gain in the face, neck, and abdomen area,
- High blood pressure
- Skin thinning or bruising
- Mood swings, anxiety, and depression
- Muscle weakness
Thyrotropin-Secreting Tumors
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is overproduced by these tumours, causes the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormones. This may result in hyperthyroidism, which can cause symptoms including palpitations or a fast heartbeat, increased sweat production, shaking, and weight loss.
Prolactinomas
Tumours known as prolactinomas are caused by a high amount of prolactin, the hormone that controls the production of milk in the breasts. Women, especially those in their reproductive years, are at greater risk of having these tumours, which can result in symptoms like
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles,
- Galactorrhea (unexpected milk production),
- Infertility etc.
Prolactinomas in males can result in symptoms like reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, and low testosterone levels.
Consult a Specialist Today!
Early diagnosis of pituitary tumours leads to easy treatment and recovery. Diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan. After diagnosis, patients can easily select the treatment required.
If you are from Bangladesh, Thailand, or Kenya and are considering pituitary treatment in India, Cross Border Care can help you connect with world-class healthcare facilities and experts.
Take the next step toward your health and well-being. Contact Cross Border Care today!
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