What is the pituitary gland?
Your pituitary gland is a very tiny organ found at the base of your brain. Part of your endocrine system, your pituitary gland produces hormones that direct many body functions, including the production of hormones in other glands.
Some of the hormones produced by your pituitary gland include:
- Prolactin (for female lactation)
- Growth hormone (dictates childhood growth and muscle development)
- Adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) (stimulates the production of cortisol)
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone
- Luteinizing hormone (stimulates release of sex hormones)
- Antidiuretic hormone (controls sodium and fluid levels)
Any condition that affects the function of your pituitary gland may alter the production of these hormones, which may in turn affect your overall health and wellness.
What is pituitary disease?
Pituitary disease is a general term that includes various conditions affecting the structure and function of your pituitary gland. In most cases, pituitary disease develops from a pituitary tumor.
Although a pituitary tumor may be benign and not affect hormone production, some tumors may lead to pituitary conditions such as:
- Acromegaly
- Adult growth hormone deficiency
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Diabetes insipidus
- Hypopituitarism
- Craniopharyngioma
These pituitary conditions may cause an increase or decrease in hormone production. They may also affect production of hormones in other endocrine glands.
What happens during a consultation for pituitary disease?
The endocrinology specialists at Princeton Endocrinology Associates have advanced training and experience in all forms of pituitary disease. The specifics of your consultation may depend on your symptoms and medical history.
During your consultation, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms and your medical and family history, and then performs a physical exam.
To confirm or rule out a pituitary disease, your provider may request diagnostic tests to assess hormone levels. Imaging tests, such as an MRI or a CT scan, may also be requested to evaluate your pituitary gland.
How is pituitary disease managed?
Your provider at Princeton Endocrinology Associates develops an individualized treatment plan for the management of your pituitary disease based on your specific diagnosis, symptoms, and medical history.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Hormone therapy
- Medication to decrease hormone production
- Surgical intervention to remove a pituitary tumor
Your specialist reviews the details of your treatment plan with you and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your disease and symptoms.
Princeton Endocrinology Associates provides personalized patient-focused care. To schedule an appointment with the pituitary disease experts, call the office or request an appointment using the online booking tool.
