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Pituitary Tumors
Tumors may form in the pituitary gland, an organ in the brain that controls the release of hormones in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers that send signals to the body's organs to keep them working properly. Pituitary tumors have various effects on hormones and health, and they can cause many different health complications in adults and children. These tumors can develop on their own or be caused by one of many inherited disorders. NICHD scientists are exploring the causes of pituitary tumors and their related disorders and seeking better ways to diagnose and treat them.
General Information
Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths in the pituitary gland, which sits in the center of the brain. This gland helps control growth, metabolism, stress response, and sexual and reproductive function.
The symptoms of functioning tumors depend on the hormone the tumor is overproducing.
The exact cause of pituitary tumors is unknown. It is likely they are caused by abnormalities in one or more genes, by hormonal abnormalities, or by a combination of these factors.
Your doctor may do physical, eye, and neurological exams in addition to blood and urine tests and imaging tests to diagnose pituitary tumors.
The type of treatment depends on the type of tumor, and may include drugs, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Most pituitary tumors are curable, especially if diagnosed early.
Research
NICHD conducts and supports research on pituitary tumors and on many disorders associated with them.
Find a Study
NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to pituitary tumors.
More Information
Find answers to other common questions about pituitary tumors, such as whether the tumors can lead to cancer and how pituitary tumors may affect pregnancy.
Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about pituitary tumors.
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