The pituitary gland is a very small pea sized gland that regulates the functioning of other glands and human body. When pituitary cells over grow, they may give rise to tumors that can be benign or malignant. But most of the tumors of pituitary are noncancerous or benign. Cancerous pituitary tumors are extremely rare.
Cause of Pituitary cancer
Although the real cause of pituitary cancer is not known but a small percentage of pituitary tumor cases runs in families, but most have no apparent hereditary factor.
Symptoms of a Pituitary cancer
The major manifestation of pituitary cancer is either over or decreased production of hormones and may show following symptoms:
Hypersecretion of hormones
Flushing of the face
Weakness of muscles and bones
High blood pressure
Irregular heartbeat
Joint pain
Headache
Vision loss , particularly peripheral vision
Large sized hands and feet (acromegaly)
Presence of milk in breast even if not pregnant
Lack of milk when breastfeeding
Excess sweating
Menstrual cycle changes (Less frequent or no menstrual periods)
Reduced sex drive
Impotence
Loss of body hair
Acne
Feeling cold
Delayed sexual development and growth in children
Weight gain or loss
Increased amount of urine
Bruising easily
Irritability, anxiety, depression
Nausea & vomiting
Dizziness
Confusion
Seizures
Runny nose due to cerebrospinal fluid leaking into the nose
Diagnosing Pituitary Cancer
A malignant or cancerous pituitary tumor is very difficult to differentiate from benign tumor. A pituitary cancer may not be diagnosed until it spreads to other parts of the body like brain, spinal cord or meninges. Its diagnosis requires following examinations:
Blood and urine tests to determine hormone levels
MRI or CT scans to detect tumors in the pituitary gland
Vision testing
Treatment for Pituitary Cancer
Treatment of pituitary cancer depends upon the size and extent of the tumor along with its hormone producing nature. It may include:
Surgery to remove the pituitary gland by any of the following approach:
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