Pituitary Tumor – How and why does it develop?
Pituitary
tumors (adenomas) are one of the most common forms of tumors found developing
in the body. Although the exact cause for the development of a pituitary tumor
is unknown, in some cases genetics and certain environmental factors have been
suspected to cause a tumor to grow in the pituitary gland.
Pituitary Tumors – Are they Cancerous?
In
almost all cases, the pituitary tumors are found to be non-cancerous (benign)
in nature. Although the tumor might be benign it might still cause various
complications because of its growing size, such as:
- Loss of vision
- Abnormal pituitary functions (Hypopituitarism)
- Headache
Pituitary Tumors – How are they Treated?
Pituitary
tumors can be treated using several different methods however the exact type of
treatment method for treating the particular pituitary tumor will depend on:
·
Type of
Pituitary Tumor – Hormone-secreting pituitary tumors are mostly treated
successfully using medications, which are able to reduce the size of the
pituitary tumor as well as regulate the level of Prolactin in the body.
·
Size of
Pituitary Tumor – In case the pituitary tumor is smaller in size (less than
10 mm) then the treatment method mainly used in medication and these are mostly
successful in shrinking the size of the tumor and also for normalizing the
level of Prolactin in the body. In case the [pituitary tumor is comparatively
larger in size then the doctor will usually suggest a surgical treatment method
which will not only remove the tumor but also relieve the pressure being caused
on the other surrounding tissues and organs.
Does a Pituitary Tumor shorten Life
Expectancy?
The
life expectancy of a person is not affected by the development of a pituitary
tumor normally, if the patient receives adequate and effective treatment on
time.
Hormone
replacement therapy is known to help control and regulate the levels of
hormones in the body after a pituitary tumor removal procedure is performed.
Regular monitoring of the pituitary gland and the level of hormones in the body
after a pituitary tumor treatment is advised through regular appointments with
the physician/doctor. Steroid medications are also advised after the treatment
for pituitary tumors to help regulate the level of cortisol in the body.
If
the patient follows the instructions and rules advised by the doctor/surgeon
prior to the surgery about the after-care then the patient can expect to live a
long and happy life free from any risk and fear of complications arising due to
the tumor in the future.
