Pituitary tumors, or pituitary adenomas, represent 15% of all cerebral tumors, making them a crucial aspect of neurological studies.

Location & Function:

These tumors occur in the anterior (front) part of the pituitary gland, a small but essential organ responsible for producing vital hormones that regulate several body functions, affecting glands like the thyroid, testes, and ovaries.

Hormonal Roles:

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Influential for ovarian egg production and male fertility.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Plays a role in progesterone production, preparing the uterus for potential fertilization.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): Induces the adrenal gland to produce vital hormones, cortisol, and aldosterone.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Affects thyroid stimulation.

Growth Hormone (GH): Triggers growth in numerous body cells by inducing the liver to produce ILF-1.

Prolactin (PRL): Fundamental for lactation in pregnant females.

Moreover, the posterior pituitary gland contributes to water retention and facilitates milk release during breastfeeding through specific hormone production.

Tumor Categories:

Pituitary tumors are generally divided into two main categories:

• Macroadenomas: These exceed one cubic centimeter in size.
• Microadenomas: These are less than one cubic centimeter.

The concern arises when such tumors excessively enlarge, leading to the compression of adjacent structures, causing vision impairments and hormonal imbalances, leading to conditions like acromegaly, Cushing’s disease, and hyperactivity of the thyroid gland.

Treatment Protocols:

Certain pituitary tumors respond well to medication under an endocrinologist or hormone specialist’s supervision. However, larger tumors, especially those affecting adjacent structures or those unresponsive to medication, necessitate surgery. The surgical approach could be:

Transsphenoidal Surgery: This endoscopic procedure is mostly preferred, avoiding the requirement for a craniotomy.
Craniotomy: Reserved for extensive tumors, it involves creating an opening in the skull for tumor access.

The approach for managing pituitary tumors is meticulously selected, considering the individual health circumstances, ensuring optimal outcomes in each unique case. For optimal treatment solutions, schedule a consultation with expert Neurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon, Dr BSV Raju.