Types of Pituitary Tumors
There are many types of pituitary tumors. Learn about them here!
The pituitary gland sits at the base of the brain and controls hormones that regulate growth, reproduction, metabolism, mood, and behavior. It also produces other hormones that affect the body.
Adenomas
Adenomas are benign tumors that do not spread to other parts of the body. They usually cause symptoms because they produce too much hormone.
Carcinomas are malignant tumors that can spread to other parts of your body. They often cause symptoms because they block the flow of blood to nearby tissues.
Craniopharyngioma
A craniopharyngioma is a rare type of tumor that develops in the cells of the pituitary gland. It is also called a “pituitary tumor” because it grows in the pituitary gland, which sits at the base of the brain.
Granulomatous Hypophysitis
Granulomatosis hypophysitis (GH) is an inflammatory condition of the pituitary caused by granulomas. These lesions are formed when immune system cells attack foreign material, such as bacteria, viruses, or other substances. In some cases, these immune cells become trapped within the tissue and form granulomas.
Lymphocytic Inflammation
A lymphocytic inflammation of the hypophysis (LIH) is a rare type of pituitary tumor that occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of lymphocytes in the pituitary gland. This results in swelling of the pituitary gland and compression of surrounding structures.
Prolactinoma
Prolactinomas are benign adenomas that produce prolactin. They are usually found in women who are pregnant or nursing. Symptoms include headaches, visual disturbances, amenorrhea, galactorrhea, and infertility.
Lymphocytic Inflammations of the Hypophysis (LIH), also known as idiopathic hyperprolactinemia, occur when there is an abnormally high level of prolactin in the blood. It is more common in men than in women. Symptoms include headache, vision changes, amenorrhea, and infertility. LIH is not associated with any other medical condition.