Pituitary gland diseases

The pituitary gland is a small gland located at the base of the brain in a depression in the skull known as the sella turcica. It plays an important role in regulating the work of other endocrine glands by producing special hormones. The pituitary gland controls the activity of the thyroid gland, regulates the menstrual cycle, ensures proper functioning of the ovaries and produces other hormones such as growth hormone and prolactin.

However, a deficiency or excess of pituitary hormones can lead to various diseases. For example, hypopituitarism occurs when there is a lack of all pituitary hormones, and gigantism, acromegaly and dwarfism are associated with impaired production of growth hormone. Excess prolactin leads to hyperprolactinemia, and excess adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) can cause Cushing's disease. Also, a lack of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which is produced in the hypothalamus and enters the pituitary gland, can lead to the development of diabetes insipidus.

An excess or deficiency of pituitary hormones is often associated with pituitary tumors such as adenomas. Pituitary adenomas are tumors that can cause levels of certain hormones to increase or decrease. A growing adenoma can also put pressure on surrounding optic nerves, blood vessels, and the brain, which can cause headaches and visual disturbances.

Pituitary disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including defects in the blood supply, hemorrhage, congenital malformation of the pituitary gland, meningitis or encephalitis, compression by a tumor, traumatic brain injury, and certain medications, radiation, or surgery.

Various research methods are used to diagnose pituitary diseases. Endocrinologists may perform hormonal blood tests, such as thyrotropin-releasing hormone and synacthen tests. In addition, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain can be used to visualize the pituitary gland and detect tumors.

Treatment of pituitary diseases has two main goals: normalizing the level of hormones in the blood and reducing the pressure of the tumor on the surrounding brain structures in the case of an adenoma. Excess pituitary hormones are often treated surgically. Surgery may involve removal of the pituitary tumor or radiosurgery using a gamma knife or cyberknife. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace missing hormones through hormone therapy. For example, patients with hypopituitarism may be prescribed hormone replacement therapy such as hydrocortisone, thyroxine, sex hormones, or growth hormone.

When treating pituitary tumors, it is important to take into account the individual characteristics of the patient, the size and type of tumor, the presence of symptoms and other factors. The operation can be performed by a neurosurgeon specializing in brain and pituitary surgery, together with an endocrinologist.

After treatment, it is important to regularly monitor the condition of the pituitary gland and hormone levels through medical examinations and examinations. Regular monitoring allows you to identify possible relapses of the tumor or changes in hormone levels and take appropriate measures.

It is important to see your doctor if you suspect you have a pituitary disorder or if you have symptoms related to a pituitary gland disorder. The doctor will conduct the necessary studies and prescribe appropriate treatment depending on the diagnosis and individual characteristics of the patient.