What is the pituitary gland?
Part of your endocrine system, the pituitary gland is found at the base of your brain. It produces many hormones that control various body functions, as well as hormones that control other parts of your endocrine system, including your thyroid and adrenal gland.
Any pituitary disease or disorder may affect hormone production. Even small changes in hormone levels in your body have major effects on your health and wellness.
What are the types of pituitary disease?
There are many types of pituitary disease. Some of them include:
Pituitary tumors
Pituitary tumors are the most common type of pituitary disease that affect hormone production. Most pituitary hormones are benign, but when they grow on or near your pituitary gland, the tumor may alter hormone production.
A pituitary tumor may also press on your optic nerve or brain tissue and cause visual changes or head pain.
Hypopituitarism
Hypopituitarism is a pituitary disease that describes a general decrease in pituitary hormone production. The disease may be caused by a pituitary tumor, injury, or infection.
Cushing’s disease
Cushing’s disease occurs when a pituitary tumor produces an excessive amount of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is a hormone that controls blood pressure and blood sugar. Too much ACTH triggers your adrenal gland to produce and release the stress hormone cortisol.
What can I expect during a pituitary disease consultation?
When you come in to see Dr. Weiss at Abington Endocrinology for a pituitary disease consultation, he provides a comprehensive, patient-focused exam.
Dr. Weiss has advanced training and experience in pituitary disease and can provide the answers you need. During your consultation, he asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, family history, and the types of supplements and medications you take.
Then he performs a physical exam and may request diagnostic tests, such as blood work to assess hormone levels or diagnostic imaging to determine the location and size of a pituitary tumor.
How is pituitary disease treated?
Dr. Weiss develops an individualized treatment plan for pituitary disease based on the type of disorder you have, your symptoms, and your overall health. Your treatment plan may include medication to decrease hormone production or shrink the size of your pituitary tumor.
For pituitary diseases that cause a decrease in hormone production, Dr. Weiss recommends hormone therapy. He may also recommend surgery to remove the pituitary tumor.
For expert care from a physician with experience in all forms of pituitary disease, contact Abington Endocrinology by phone or book an appointment online today.
