Pituitary tumour

Pituitary tumour is a type of tumour that develops in the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized organ located at the base of the brain, responsible for producing hormones that regulate important functions of the body.

Types of Pituitary Tumours

Pituitary tumours can be classified into two main types: adenomas and carcinomas. Adenomas are benign, or noncancerous, while carcinomas are malignant, or cancerous. The majority of pituitary tumours are adenomas.

Adenomas

Adenomas are the most common type of pituitary tumour. They are typically slow-growing and do not spread to other parts of the body. Adenomas can be further classified into microadenomas (smaller than 10 millimeters) and macroadenomas (larger than 10 millimeters).

Carcinomas

Carcinomas are rare and are considered malignant because they can spread to other parts of the body. However, the spread of pituitary carcinomas is extremely rare.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a pituitary tumour depend on its size and whether it is secreting excess hormones. Common symptoms include headaches, vision problems, and hormonal imbalances.

Diagnosis

Pituitary tumours are often diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan.

Treatment

Treatment options for pituitary tumours include surgery, radiation therapy, and medication. The choice of treatment depends on the type and size of the tumour, as well as the patient's overall health.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with a pituitary tumour varies depending on the type and size of the tumour, as well as the individual's overall health. However, with appropriate treatment, many people with pituitary tumours are able to live normal, healthy lives.

Pituitary tumour Resources
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