Pituitary Disorders

The pituitary gland, often referred to as the “master gland,” plays a crucial role in regulating a variety of body functions by releasing hormones that control growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response. Pituitary disorders occur when the gland produces too much or too little of these hormones, often due to an injury, tumor, or other underlying condition. At Revere Health, our endocrinology specialists provide expert evaluation and management for a range of pituitary disorders, helping patients achieve better hormonal balance and overall health.

What Are Pituitary Disorders?
The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized structure located at the base of the brain. It releases several key hormones, such as growth hormone (GH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), prolactin, and others. When the gland’s function is disrupted, it can lead to an overproduction (hypersecretion) or underproduction (hyposecretion) of these hormones, which can cause a variety of symptoms and complications.

Common pituitary disorders include:

Pituitary Tumors (Adenomas): Benign tumors that can affect hormone production and put pressure on surrounding brain structures.
Hypopituitarism: Reduced production of one or more pituitary hormones, often leading to fatigue, weight changes, and reproductive issues.
Acromegaly and Gigantism: Excess growth hormone production, resulting in abnormal growth of bones and tissues.
Cushing’s Disease: Overproduction of ACTH, leading to high cortisol levels, weight gain, and other metabolic issues.
Prolactinoma: Overproduction of prolactin, which can cause irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and milk production in individuals who are not breastfeeding.
Diabetes Insipidus: A rare condition caused by low production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to excessive thirst and urination.
Symptoms of Pituitary Disorders
The symptoms of pituitary disorders vary depending on the type and severity of hormone imbalance. Common signs include:

Unexplained Weight Changes: Sudden weight gain or loss without changes in diet or activity.
Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness, muscle weakness, or low energy.
Headaches and Vision Problems: Headaches and changes in vision may occur if a tumor presses on nearby nerves.
Irregular Menstrual Cycles or Infertility: In women, pituitary disorders can cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, or changes in libido.
Growth Abnormalities: Unusual height or bone growth in children or adults.
Mood Changes: Depression, anxiety, or other mood disturbances.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing pituitary disorders involves a combination of blood tests, imaging studies (such as MRI), and a thorough evaluation of symptoms and medical history. At Revere Health, our endocrinology team works closely with radiologists and neurosurgeons to provide accurate diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans.

Treatment Options
The treatment for pituitary disorders depends on the underlying cause and may include:

Medication: Hormone replacement therapy for underproduction or medications to suppress overproduction.
Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery, such as transsphenoidal surgery, to remove pituitary tumors that are causing symptoms or disrupting hormone production.
Radiation Therapy: Used when tumors cannot be fully removed or when other treatments are ineffective.
Lifestyle and Supportive Care: Lifestyle changes, counseling, and supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Why Choose Revere Health for Pituitary Disorder Management?
At Revere Health, our experienced endocrinology team is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care for individuals with pituitary disorders. We utilize advanced diagnostic techniques and collaborate with neurosurgeons and other specialists to ensure that each patient receives the most effective treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a pituitary disorder or have been diagnosed with a pituitary condition, contact Revere Health today to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help you achieve better health and well-being through expert care and personalized support.