1. Acromegaly
Acromegaly is a condition caused by too much growth hormone over many years. It is usually due to a non-cancerous tumor in the pituitary gland.
Common symptoms include:
- Enlarged hands, feet, jaw, or facial features
- Deeper voice or sleep breathing problems
- Joint pain or arthritis
- Thickened skin or skin tags
- High blood pressure, diabetes, or heart problems
Diagnosis is made with blood tests and an MRI scan.
Treatment may include surgery, medicines, or radiation. With treatment and regular follow-up, acromegaly can usually be controlled.
2. Cushing Disease
Cushing disease is caused by too much cortisol, a hormone that helps the body respond to stress. It is usually due to a pituitary tumor that makes excess ACTH, which increases cortisol levels.
Common symptoms include:
- Weight gain in the face, neck, and belly
- Thin arms and legs
- Easy bruising and slow healing
- Muscle weakness
- High blood pressure, diabetes, or bone loss
- Mood or energy changes
Diagnosis involves hormone tests and imaging of the pituitary gland.
Treatment often includes surgery to remove the tumor. Medicines or radiation may be needed in some cases. Long-term monitoring is important.
3. Prolactinoma
A prolactinoma is a non-cancerous pituitary tumor that makes too much prolactin, a hormone involved in reproduction.
Common symptoms include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods
- Milk discharge from the breasts (not related to breastfeeding)
- Fertility problems
- Low sex hormone levels
- Headaches or vision problems if the tumor is large
Diagnosis is made with blood tests and an MRI scan.
Treatment usually involves medication that lowers prolactin levels and shrinks the tumor. Surgery is rarely needed. Most people do very well with treatment