The pituitary gland produces numerous hormones crucial to bodily function. When this gland ceases working correctly, it can lead to a wide range of health effects. When pituitary gland malfunctions occur, the right treatment can improve health by alleviating symptoms.
The pituitary gland rests at the base of the brain. While it’s substantially small, only about the size of a pea, it plays a significant role in the production of hormones that affect human growth, reproduction, and thyroid function. Additionally, the pituitary gland also supports the function of other glands in the body, including the adrenal glands, ovaries, testes, and thyroid.
Pituitary gland disorders affect hormone production and impact many bodily functions as a result. These disorders can include:
Diagnosing pituitary gland disorders typically involves a combination of physical examination, evaluating a patient’s background and history, and use of imaging technology to check for physical abnormalities of the gland.
Treatment of pituitary disorders typically depends on the type and effects of the disorder. If a pituitary tumour causes an excess of hormones, medications can reduce how many hormones are produced. Some drugs can also cause the size of the tumour to decrease to allow the gland to function normally.
As for hypopituitarism, medications increase the number of hormones made to support bodily functions. This typically includes hormone replacement therapies, which can boost the levels of hormones that control growth, reproduction, and fertility. For some people, doctors may recommend monitoring of pituitary conditions before administering treatment. For others, surgery may be the best course of action.