The pituitary gland is the master commander of the body's hormones. Responsible for the production of cortisol, thyroid hormones, growth hormones, and a variety of hormones involved in lactation, menstruation and urination, the pituitary gland is a major communication link between the brain and the body. Tumors of the pituitary gland are the third most common form of brain tumor in adults. Generally benign, these tumors can produce hormones and may be discovered even when quite small in size, based on the effects that hormone overproduction may have on the body. For example, patients with prolactin producing tumors often notice milk production from their nipples and women will stop menstruating. Patients with growth hormone producing tumors may notice enlargement in their hands and feet. Patients with cortisol producing tumors may gain weight, become anxious or depressed and have trouble sleeping.
Tumors that do not produce hormones can grow to be quite large in size and compress brain structures such as the optic nerves, affecting vision. For this reason, both hormone-producing and non hormone-producing tumors are usually removed surgically.
Watch a video of a pituitary tumor removal.