Guide To The Types of Pituitary Tumors

Prolactinomas

Prolactin producing tumors, prolactinomas, are a type of very common but irregular growth that develops in the pituitary gland and causes it to produce an excessive quantity of a hormone called prolactin. Prolactin-producing tumors are not cancerous, but they can grow to a large size over time. Patients who have prolactinomas experience higher than normal levels of prolactin, which is most commonly known for its role in the stimulation of breastmilk but also plays a role in other processes in the body. Females who develop prolactinomas have symptoms related to low levels of estrogen. Low estrogen symptoms include irregular menstruation, infertility, skipped periods, and breast discharge. Males who develop prolactinomas in their pituitary gland experience symptoms related to lower than normal levels of testosterone. Low testosterone levels cause erectile dysfunction, enlarged breasts, decreased body hair, and decreased facial hair. Prolactinomas produce low bone density, hypopituitarism, headaches, vision problems, and loss of interest in sexual activity in both sexes. Blood tests, vision tests, and brain imaging are used to make a diagnosis of prolactinoma.

Uncover the next type of pituitary tumor now.