Pituitary tumors: surgical and medical management

Abstract

The pituitary gland has been termed the 'master gland' because of the myriad of hormones that emanate from it that are vital for normal homeostasis as well as growth and development. Primary tumors of this region are frequent and account for up to 10% of intracranial tumors. Pituitary tumors are monoclonal in origin, and may arise from any of the different cell types of the pituitary gland. Hence, these tumors may be manifest by their hormonal secretions. This may lead to profound and striking physiological changes attributable, for example, to prolactin, growth hormone, or ACTH excess. The central location of the pituitary gland also leads to characteristic compressive symptoms. This review will explore the clinical presentations of growth hormone, ACTH, and prolactin secreting tumors as well as the non-secreting pituitary tumors. Advances in neuroimaging and neuropharmacology have resulted in changes in our treatment of these tumors. Treatment modalities including surgical, medical, and radiation therapy will be addressed. The treatment of choice is dictated by the type of tumor and the nature of the excessive hormonal expression. Outcomes and efficacy of treatment are discussed.