Pituitary conditions
- Prolactinoma: a benign tumor that makes prolactin, causing missed periods, milk discharge or low sex drive. Usually treated with medicine.
- Nonfunctioning pituitary tumors: may press on nearby nerves and affect vision.
- Acromegaly: too much growth hormone, causing enlarged hands, feet and facial features.
- Hypopituitarism: low levels of one or more pituitary hormones.
- Cushing's disease: a pituitary tumor that drives cortisol excess.
Treatment
Many pituitary conditions are treated with medicine. Some need surgery by an experienced pituitary neurosurgeon. The endocrinologist manages hormone testing before and after, and replaces any hormones that are low.