The pituitary gland: Key functions and treatments

The pituitary gland, a vital regulator nestled in the brain, plays a crucial role in controlling various bodily functions through hormone secretion. In her latest online article, Professor Sze May Ng provides an overview of the gland's functions, the causes and detection of pituitary disorders, and the treatments available. Professor Ng discusses common disorders like prolactinoma and the challenges posed by rare conditions such as craniopharyngioma, aiming to offer insights into managing these complex health issues.

Functions of the pituitary gland

Hormones released by the pituitary gland play a pivotal role in regulating metabolism and growth, among other functions. The hypothalamus, a region of the brain, initiates this hormonal cascade by sending messages to the pituitary gland. From there, specific hormones are released, each with its own vital role in maintaining bodily functions. The anterior pituitary produces hormones such as thyroid stimulating hormone, adrenal corticotropic hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, growth hormone, and prolactin. Conversely, the posterior pituitary gland produces vasopressin, a hormone critical for water balance regulation.

Causes of pituitary disorders

Pituitary disorders, characterised by deficiencies in pituitary hormones, can be congenital or acquired later in life. Acquired hypopituitarism may result from various factors including tumours, head injuries, radiation exposure, autoimmune conditions, brain infections, strokes, or brain surgeries. These conditions can disrupt hormone production and lead to a range of health issues.

Detection and symptoms

Detecting pituitary disorders typically involves a combination of imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, blood tests to assess hormone levels, and dynamic function tests. Symptoms can vary depending on the specific hormone deficiency but may include growth problems, visual disturbances, headaches, and reproductive issues.

Treatment approaches

Treatment for pituitary disorders revolves around replacing deficient hormones identified through diagnostic assessments. For instance, growth hormone deficiency may require growth hormone therapy, while ACTH deficiency necessitates cortisol replacement therapy. In cases of panhypopituitarism, where multiple hormones are affected, comprehensive hormone replacement therapy may be warranted.

Focus on prolactinoma

One common pituitary disorder is prolactinoma, a benign tumour of the pituitary gland that overproduces prolactin. Symptoms may include headaches, visual disturbances, fertility issues, and abnormal breast milk production unrelated to pregnancy. Fortunately, the majority of prolactinomas respond well to medication, with surgery or radiotherapy reserved for cases resistant to medical therapy.

Craniopharyngioma: A rare challenge

Craniopharyngiomas, though rare, pose a unique challenge as they grow near the pituitary gland, impacting hormone levels and causing symptoms such as growth problems, visual disturbances, and headaches. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention due to the progressive nature of these tumours.

Professor Sze May Ng is a respected consultant paediatric endocrinologist and consultant paediatrician. You can schedule an appointment with Professor Ng on her Top Doctors profile.