A pituitary tumor can disrupt hormone production, leading to various health issues. Larger tumors, known as macroadenomas, can exert pressure on the pituitary gland and surrounding structures, while smaller ones are termed microadenomas.
Key symptoms of a pituitary tumor include:
- Persistent headaches
- Diminished vision
- Visual field disturbances
- Irregular menstrual cycles in women
- Erectile dysfunction or reduced libido, and decreased facial hair in men
- Slowed growth in children
Additionally, pituitary tumors can manifest symptoms of Cushing’s disease, characterized by:
- Truncal obesity
- Thin and easily bruised skin
- Purple abdominal striae
- Rounded face
- Muscle wasting
- Excess body hair in women
- Acne and menstrual irregularities
- Psychological symptoms like depression and psychosis
Complications may include osteoporosis, hypertension, and diabetes.
Various types of pituitary tumors present distinct symptoms:
- Prolactin-producing tumors may cause galactorrhea in non-pregnant women and amenorrhea. In men, it can lead to impotence and reduced libido.
- Growth hormone-producing tumors can result in giantism if developed before puberty, characterized by rapid growth, excessive height, enlarged head, coarse facial features, and vision problems. In adulthood, acromegaly may occur, with symptoms like thick skin, enlarged facial features, deep voice, enlarged extremities, barrel-shaped chest, excessive sweating, and joint pain.
- Nonfunctioning tumors may not overproduce hormones but can cause symptoms due to their size or pressure on surrounding structures, often detected incidentally during brain imaging.
Prolactin-secreting tumors can suppress the pituitary’s hormone production, starting with sex hormones, followed by thyroid and adrenal hormones. Symptoms include loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities. Advanced cases may lead to fatigue and dizziness due to impaired thyroid and adrenal function.
If experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention is advisable.