A pituitary tumor is an abnormal growth that develops in the pituitary gland—a small, pea-sized organ located at the base of the brain. Most are benign (non-cancerous) but can disrupt hormone production or compress nearby structures, leading to various symptoms. At Phalke Neuro, we provide specialized and compassionate care to diagnose and treat pituitary tumors, aiming for effective recovery and hormonal balance.
What Are Pituitary Tumors?
Pituitary tumors are growths in the pituitary gland that may:
- Produce excessive hormones, such as:
- Prolactinomas—result in menstrual irregularities or milk production in women; sexual dysfunction in men
- ACTH-producing tumors—lead to Cushing’s disease with symptoms like weight gain, high blood pressure, and hormonal imbalances
- Growth hormone–producing tumors—cause gigantism in children and acromegaly in adults, with bone overgrowth, joint pain, and metabolic issues
- Be nonfunctional adenomas, which don’t release hormones but may cause headaches or vision issues when large
Causes & Symptoms
- Causes are often unknown, though genetic syndromes like MEN 1 may increase risk
- Symptoms vary depending on hormone activity and tumor size:
- Hormonal imbalance signs: irregular periods, mood changes, fatigue, weight shifts .
- Vision problems like peripheral vision loss due to optic nerve pressure
- Physical changes from hormone excess—for example, acromegaly or signs of Cushing’s
Diagnosis of Pituitary Tumors
Accurate assessment is paramount. At Phalke Neuro, our diagnostic protocol includes:
- Blood and urine tests to assess hormone levels.
- MRI of the pituitary for detailed imaging.
- Visual field testing if vision symptoms are present.
- Biopsy—rarely needed but used when diagnosis is uncertain
Treatment Options
1. Medication (First Line for Functional Tumors)
For hormone-secreting tumors:
- Dopamine agonists like cabergoline or bromocriptine effectively treat prolactinomas
These treatments often reduce tumor size and restore hormonal balance.
2. Surgical Approaches
- Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery is the preferred, minimally invasive approach. Accessing the tumor via the nasal cavity and sphenoid sinus, it avoids a skull incision, leaves no visible scar, and reduces recovery time
- Transcranial (Craniotomy) is used for large or invasive tumors that can’t be accessed through the nose
3. Radiation Therapy
For residual or recurrent tumors:
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife) delivers precise, high-dose treatment in a single or few sessions
- External beam radiation, IMRT, or even proton beam therapy may be used depending on tumor location and patient condition
4. Combined Treatment Strategies
Some patients benefit from a combination of medical therapy, surgery, and radiosurgery—especially when tumors are aggressive or recur
Why Choose Phalke Neuro for Pituitary Tumor Care?
- Expert Multidisciplinary Team – Neurologists, neurosurgeons, and endocrinologists collaborate for tailored treatment.
- Advanced Minimally Invasive Techniques – Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery ensures precision with minimal patient discomfort.
- Holistic Care Approach – Treatments are personalized, with follow-up plans including hormone management, imaging, and emotional support.
- Proven Track Record – We prioritize safe outcomes, faster recovery, and improved quality of life.