Pituitary gland disorders can cause hormone imbalances throughout the body. These may impact your energy, mood, vision, and bodily functions.
What are pituitary disorders?
Your pituitary gland is the size of a garbanzo bean (chickpea) and sits at the base of your brain where it communicates with other glands that control hormones for stress, growth, reproduction, thyroid function, and other functions.
Too many or too few hormones may disrupt the balance in your body. This balance is necessary to keep your body in proper working order. When this balance is disturbed, it can lead to pituitary disorders, pituitary disease, pituitary problems, or pituitary issues. Because the pituitary gland affects so many different bodily functions, the symptoms of a pituitary disorder can vary widely and might not immediately be recognized as coming from the pituitary.
These can include headaches, vision problems, fatigue, weight changes (gain or loss), changes in mood or behavior, fertility issues, changes in menstruation, low libido, and changes in growth (too much or too little). The experts at the AHN Pituitary Center have the necessary experience and understanding that can help connect these seemingly unrelated symptoms to a pituitary issue.
AHN Pituitary Center
The AHN Pituitary Center includes physicians and specialists who have unique training and years of experience treating patients with pituitary disease, pituitary conditions, and issues. If you are dealing with a pituitary disorder, you want to find expert and compassionate care from a team who understands the pituitary disorder symptoms that might be experiencing. Our specialists from various medical fields work together in a multidisciplinary approach to provide you with a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan. Your AHN care team may include:
- Neurosurgeons
- Endocrinologists
- Head and neck surgeons
- Ophthalmologists
- Neuro-oncologists
- Radiologists
- Radiation oncologists
Find us
AHN Pituitary Center
Allegheny General Hospital
320 East North Avenue, Hemlock Building, 2nd Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
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Why choose AHN for your pituitary disease
At the AHN Pituitary Center, our team of expert physicians and providers care for people with pituitary gland disorders. Our team includes health care professionals in multiple different specialties, including neurosurgery and endocrinology, who collaborate to provide you the best, most efficient care for your specific condition. Our coordinated approach to treatment provides a smooth, prompt care experience.
We understand that every patient and every pituitary condition is unique. That's why we create highly individualized treatment plans, tailored specifically to your needs and lifestyle. And, our commitment to your health extends beyond initial treatment. We provide comprehensive follow-up care and long-term monitoring to ensure your continued well-being. Your treatment is personalized, and our team is dedicated to designing a care plan that addresses your specific diagnosis and personal goals.
Pituitary conditions we treat
Our team evaluates and manages patients with a wide range of pituitary and other endocrine disorders, including:
- Pituitary tumors
- Non-functioning adenomas
- Functioning adenomas including prolactinomas, Cushing’s syndrome, Acromegaly, and TSH secreting adenomas
- Pituitary cysts including arachnoid cysts, Rathke cleft cysts, cystic adenomas, and pars intermedia cysts
- Empty Sella Syndrome
- Pituitary apoplexy
- Hypopituitarism
- Inflammatory conditions, such as lymphocytic hypophysitis and sarcoidosis
Pituitary disorders symptoms and signs
The symptoms and signs of a pituitary disorder can be quite varied because the pituitary gland produces many different hormones that control various bodily functions. The specific signs and symptoms depend on which hormones are affected (either too much or too little) and whether there's a growth, like a tumor, pressing on nearby areas.
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Feeling cold
- Vision problems or vision loss
Causes and risk factors
Many pituitary disorders and pituitary issues such as Cushing syndrome and acromegaly are caused by the growth of a noncancerous (benign) tumor on the pituitary gland. These are called pituitary adenomas. It's important to know that they are almost always non-cancerous: Unlike cancerous tumors that can spread aggressively, pituitary adenomas generally stay within the pituitary gland or nearby areas. They can cause problems in two main ways:
- Hormone production: Some adenomas produce too much of a specific hormone. For example, a tumor might produce excess growth hormone, leading to a condition called acromegaly, or too much prolactin, causing hyperprolactinemia. The symptoms then relate to the effects of that excess hormone in the body.
- Pressure effects: Larger adenomas can press on the pituitary gland itself, disrupting its normal hormone production (leading to too few hormones), or press on nearby structures like the optic nerves, causing vision problems.
While pituitary adenomas are the most common, other factors can also lead to pituitary disorders:
- Genetic conditions: In some cases, certain inherited genetic conditions can increase the risk of developing pituitary tumors.
- Head trauma/injury: Significant head injuries, although rare, can sometimes damage the pituitary gland.
- Infections: Infections that affect the brain or surrounding areas can, in very rare instances, impact pituitary function.
- Radiation treatment: Radiation to the head or neck area, particularly for other conditions, can sometimes affect the pituitary gland over time.
- Infiltrative diseases: Conditions where abnormal cells or substances build up in tissues (like sarcoidosis or hemochromatosis) can sometimes affect the pituitary.
- Autoimmune conditions: In rare cases, the body's immune system can mistakenly attack the pituitary gland, leading to inflammation and dysfunction (hypophysitis).
Unlike some other diseases, there are few widely recognized lifestyle-related risk factors (like diet, smoking, or exercise) that directly increase your chance of developing a pituitary disorder.
- Genetics: As mentioned, a family history of certain genetic syndromes (like MEN1) is the most significant known risk factor. If you have a close relative with such a syndrome, discussing this with your doctor is advisable.
- Age: While pituitary tumors can occur at any age, they are more commonly diagnosed in adults.
It's important to remember that most pituitary tumors occur spontaneously, meaning they develop without any clear identifiable cause or risk factor. If you are experiencing symptoms, understanding the potential causes can help guide your conversation with your AHN healthcare provider.
Pituitary disorders screening and diagnosis
When you're experiencing symptoms that might suggest a pituitary disorder, pituitary disease, pituitary problems, or pituitary issues, getting an accurate diagnosis is the first crucial step toward effective treatment. At the AHN Pituitary Center, we employ a thorough and coordinated approach to identify the precise nature of your condition.
- Detailed medical history and physical exam: This often includes discussing your symptoms, medical history, and conducting a comprehensive physical examination.
- Blood and urine tests: These tests are essential to directly measure hormone levels in your blood or urine. We specifically look for imbalances of the hormones produced by the pituitary gland.
- Endocrine evaluation: An endocrinologist (a doctor specializing in hormones and glands) will thoroughly review all your lab results and clinical symptoms.
- Imaging studies (MRI of the brain/pituitary): A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan provides highly detailed images of your brain and pituitary area. It helps us identify the presence, size, and exact location of any pituitary tumors (adenomas) or other structural abnormalities.
- Eye exam (ophthalmologic evaluation): Pituitary tumors, especially larger ones, can sometimes press on the optic nerves. An ophthalmologist will perform a specialized eye exam, including visual field testing, to check for any vision issues.
- Neurosurgical consultation: If an imaging study reveals a tumor or if your condition is best treated surgically, you will consult with a neurosurgeon who specializes in pituitary surgery.
- Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) exam: If pituitary surgery is needed, particularly the common transsphenoidal approach (which goes through the nasal passages), an ENT specialist will perform an exam.
By bringing together this team of specialists and utilizing these advanced diagnostic tools, we ensure a precise and comprehensive understanding of your pituitary problems, allowing us to develop the most effective, personalized treatment plan for you.
Types of pituitary disorders
Pituitary disorders, pituitary disease, pituitary problems, or pituitary issues can manifest in various ways, depending on which hormones are affected and who is experiencing the condition. While many disorders affect all adults, some have unique impacts on females or males due to differences in hormonal systems. Understanding the types of pituitary disorders is crucial, but it's also helpful to know that pituitary tumors (adenomas) are often categorized by their size:
- Microadenoma: A tumor smaller than 10 millimeters (about 0.4 inches) in diameter.
- Macroadenoma: A tumor 10 millimeters or larger in diameter.
Pituitary gland disorders in adults
Adults can experience a wide range of pituitary problems that disrupt the delicate balance of hormones. These disorders can affect energy levels, metabolism, reproduction, and overall well-being. Common types of pituitary disorders seen in adults include:
- Pituitary adenomas (tumors): These non-cancerous growths are the primary cause of most pituitary issues. They can either overproduce hormones or grow large enough to press on the pituitary gland or nearby structures.
- Prolactinomas: The most common hormone-producing pituitary tumor, leading to excess prolactin.
- Growth hormone-secreting adenomas (acromegaly): Causing too much growth hormone, resulting in gradual enlargement of hands, feet, and facial features.
- ACTH-secreting adenomas (Cushing’s disease): Leading to an overproduction of ACTH, which causes excess cortisol and symptoms like weight gain and skin changes.
- Non-functional adenomas: These tumors don't produce excess hormones but can cause symptoms by pressing on the pituitary gland (leading to hormone deficiencies) or optic nerves (causing vision problems).
- Hypopituitarism: This occurs when the pituitary gland doesn't produce enough of one or more pituitary hormones. It can be caused by large pituitary tumors, head injury, or certain medical conditions, leading to fatigue, weight changes, and reproductive issues depending on which hormones are deficient.
- Diabetes insipidus: A pituitary problem caused by insufficient antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to excessive thirst and urination.
Pituitary gland disorders in females
Those assigned female at birth can experience unique manifestations and challenges with pituitary disorders due to the pituitary's critical role in the female reproductive system and its interaction with sex hormones. The most common pituitary issues in females are tumors called prolactinomas. Prolactinomas are noncancerous tumors that form in the pituitary gland and can produce an excess of the hormone prolactin. Those assigned female at birth can also experience:
- Acromegaly and Cushing's Disease: While generally similar to males, females with these conditions may also experience menstrual irregularities and fertility challenges, or specific symptoms like excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in Cushing's. Learn more about Acromegaly and Cushing’s Disease.
- Pregnancy and pituitary disorders: Pre-existing pituitary issues can affect pregnancy, and pregnancy itself can sometimes cause pituitary tumors (especially prolactinomas) to grow larger due to hormonal changes, requiring careful management.
- Galactorrhea: Production of breast milk unrelated to pregnancy.
- Hypopituitarism: A rare condition that causes the pituitary gland to not produce enough essential hormones.
Pituitary gland disorders in males
Pituitary problems in those assigned male at birth often significantly impact sexual health, energy, and body composition due to the pituitary's influence on testosterone production. The most common pituitary issues in males include issues from prolactinomas, noncancerous tumors in the pituitary gland. Elevated prolactin levels in males can lead to:
- Hypogonadism: Reduced testosterone production, causing decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced fertility.
- Gynecomastia: Enlargement of breast tissue.
- Hypogonadism: Leading to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced sperm count, and infertility.
- Acromegaly and Cushing's Disease: Symptoms are similar to females but can also include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced fertility due to hormonal imbalances. Learn more about Acromegaly and Cushing’s Disease.
Pituitary disorders treatment
Addressing pituitary disorders, pituitary disease, pituitary problems, or pituitary issues often involves a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. The approach depends on several factors: whether the tumor makes too much of a particular hormone, the type and size of the tumor, and its impact on your health.
Our multidisciplinary team at the AHN Pituitary Center will work closely with you to determine the most effective course of action. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: Often the first-line treatment, especially for tumors that are large, pressing on important structures (like the optic nerves), or producing too many hormones that don't respond well to medication.
- Medications: Medicines play a crucial role in managing many pituitary disorders. They can either block the production or effects of excess hormones, shrink certain types of tumors, or replace hormones that the pituitary gland is no longer producing enough of.
AHN is here to help you navigate your pituitary disorders treatment. We’re here to help you understand your options and what you can expect before, during and after your care.
Pituitary disorder FAQs
Here you'll find answers to common questions about pituitary disorders. Our goal is to help you better understand these conditions and how they might affect your health.
What are the symptoms of a pituitary gland disorder?
The pituitary gland makes many important hormones, so problems with it can cause a wide range of symptoms. You might notice changes like unexpected weight gain or loss, headaches, vision problems, unusual tiredness, mood swings, or changes in your period or sex drive.
What causes pituitary disorders?
Most often, pituitary disorders are caused by a non-cancerous growth, called an adenoma or tumor, on the gland. Other causes can include injuries to the head, certain genetic conditions, bleeding into the gland, or sometimes even an autoimmune reaction where your body mistakenly attacks the gland.
How to fix pituitary gland disorders?
Treatment for pituitary disorders depends on the specific condition and its cause. Options can include medications to manage hormone levels, surgery to remove tumors, or radiation therapy. Your doctor will work with you to find the best approach for your situation.
How are pituitary disorders diagnosed?
Diagnosing a pituitary disorder usually involves a few steps. Your doctor will likely start with a physical exam and discuss your symptoms, then order blood tests to check your hormone levels. Imaging tests, like an MRI of your brain, are often used to get a detailed look at your pituitary gland.
Contact us
To schedule an appointment or learn more about services at the AHN Pituitary Center, call 412-359-8246.