The pituitary gland is a pea-sized, small gland situated on the base of the mind beneath the hypothalamus, also known as the grasp gland, the pituitary gland performs a major function in regulating the physique’s endocrine system by producing and releasing varied hormones. However, tumours within the pituitary gland can result in extreme hormonal imbalances. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Piyush Lodha, Endocrinologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune stated, “Understanding how pituitary tumors can disrupt hormone production and regulation is essential for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.”
ALSO READ: Pituitary tumour: PGIMER medical doctors get higher outcomes utilizing superior know-how
Understanding pituitary tumours
“Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), though the majority are benign adenomas. Despite their non-cancerous nature, these tumors can have profound effects on hormone levels and overall health,” defined Dr. Piyush Lodha.
Functioning tumours:
These tumors secrete extra quantities of hormones, resulting in situations equivalent to acromegaly, Cushing’s illness, or hyperthyroidism, relying on which hormone is overproduced.
Non-functioning Tumors:
These tumors don’t produce hormones themselves however can nonetheless trigger points by urgent on the pituitary gland or close by constructions, doubtlessly impeding regular hormone manufacturing.
Pituitary tumours can result in hormonal imbalances:
Hyperprolactinemia:
Prolactin-secreting tumors trigger extreme manufacturing of prolactin, resulting in signs equivalent to galactorrhea (surprising milk manufacturing), irregular menstrual cycles in girls, and decreased libido and erectile dysfunction in males.
Acromegaly:
Growth hormone-secreting tumors could cause extreme development hormone manufacturing, leading to irregular development of bones and tissues, notably within the arms, ft, and face.
Cushing’s Disease:
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting tumors result in overproduction of cortisol, inflicting weight achieve, hypertension, diabetes, and a attribute facial rounding referred to as “moon face.”
Hypopituitarism:
Large non-functioning tumors can press on the pituitary gland, resulting in decreased secretion of a number of pituitary hormones. This might have an effect on thyroid perform (inflicting hypothyroidism), adrenal perform, reproductive perform, and general development and metabolism.
Treatment choices:
Some of the therapy choices embody medicines that may shrink the tumour or handle hormonal disruptions, Transsphenoidal surgical procedure to take away the tumour, and radiation remedy.
“Pituitary tumors, regardless of their benign nature, could cause vital hormonal disruptions, affecting a person’s high quality of life. Understanding the categories and results of those tumors is essential for early detection and efficient therapy. By addressing hormonal imbalances promptly and appropriately, sufferers can lead more healthy lives and handle the signs related to pituitary tumors, added Dr Piyush Lodha.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
