Pituitary tumors are growths that form in your pituitary gland, a small but important gland located at the base of your brain. Most pituitary tumors are benign (noncancerous), but they can still cause health problems.
Learning about pituitary tumor symptoms can help you decide when to get care. At Banner Health, we can help you manage these growths.
The pituitary gland is often called the “master gland” because it controls many of the body’s hormone-producing glands. A pituitary tumor develops when cells in the gland grow abnormally.
These tumors are usually slow-growing and rarely spread to other parts of the body. But they can still cause symptoms by affecting your hormone levels or pressing on nearby structures.
Because these growths can change your hormone levels, they can cause health issues. Some tumors cause the gland to produce extra hormones. Others press on the gland and stop it from making the amount of hormones you need. They can also press on nearby brain structures and cause neurological changes.
Signs of a pituitary tumor can vary because these growths can affect different systems in your body. You might have a mix of hormone symptoms and nerve problems. Symptoms may include:
Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health provider to discuss any symptoms you’re concerned about.
Pituitary tumors are grouped into different types based on their size and what they do. Your treatment path will depend on your tumor type:
A team of medical experts works together to find and diagnose a pituitary tumor. Different evaluations and tests check your brain and your hormone levels:
Your care team will work with you to create a plan that fits your needs. Treatment choices depend on the size of the growth, the type of tumor and your overall health. Common options include:
A dedicated team of health care providers will support you and help you maintain your quality of life through diagnosis, treatment and in the long term. Your care plan will focus on:
Pituitary tumors are often not cancerous but they can still affect your hormones, vision and daily life. Early diagnosis can help guide the right treatment and long-term follow-up to keep you feeling your best.
Are you concerned about symptoms of a pituitary tumor? Request an appointment with a Banner Health specialist who can figure out what’s causing your symptoms and help you get the treatment you need.
No. Most pituitary tumors are benign, which means they are not cancer. They usually stay near the gland, grow very slowly and do not spread to other parts of your body.
It depends on whether the growth makes extra hormones or presses on your brain. You might notice headaches, changes in your side vision, fatigue, irregular periods or weight changes.
Yes, a larger growth can press on your optic nerves and cause a gradual loss of your side vision on both sides.
Yes, some hormone-producing tumors respond to medical management. These medications can lower your hormone levels and shrink the tumor.
No. Small or low-risk growths that do not cause symptoms can be safely monitored over time with regular scans.
Sign in to Patient Account
