Carolina Endocrinology & Diabetes
Carolina Endocrinology & Diabetes

Pituitary

Pituitary

Pituitary Health: Understanding the Master Gland

The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized structure located at the base of your brain, often referred to as the body’s “master gland.” It plays a massive role in orchestrating your entire endocrine system, regulating everything from growth and metabolism to energy and reproductive health. The pituitary gland receives signals from the hypothalamus in the brain and, in turn, releases crucial hormones that tell other glands — like the thyroid, adrenals and ovaries/testes — exactly how much of their specific hormones to produce.

Schedule an Appointment

When the Pituitary Gland Falters

Because the pituitary gland controls so many vital functions, disorders related to it can cause a wide variety of symptoms throughout the body. These conditions typically involve the pituitary producing too much (over-secretion) or too little (under-secretion) of one or more hormones.

Pituitary Tumors

The most common pituitary disorder is the formation of a pituitary tumor (or adenoma). These tumors are almost always benign (non-cancerous) but can still cause significant problems in two ways:

  1. Hormone Overproduction (Functional Tumors): The tumor itself may produce excessive amounts of a specific hormone, leading to disorders like:
    • Cushing’s Disease: Overproduction of ACTH, leading to excess cortisol.
    • Acromegaly: Overproduction of Growth Hormone, causing abnormal growth of hands, feet and facial features in adults.
    • Prolactinoma: Overproduction of Prolactin, often causing milk production and infertility.
  2. Pressure/Displacement (Non-functional Tumors): As the tumor grows, it can press on the rest of the pituitary gland, leading to hypopituitarism (hormone deficiency), or press on surrounding brain structures, notably the optic nerves, which can cause vision problems or even vision loss.

Common Symptoms That May Indicate a Pituitary Disorder

Because symptoms can be vague and overlap with other conditions, pituitary disorders are often challenging to diagnose. If you experience several of the following persistent symptoms, it’s essential to consult an endocrinologist:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Unexplained vision problems (especially peripheral vision loss)
  • Chronic fatigue and weakness
  • Unusual weight changes (gain or loss)
  • Reproductive issues (infertility, loss of libido, or menstrual changes)
  • Changes in facial features, hands or feet (unexplained enlargement)

Advanced Treatment for Pituitary Disorders

The pituitary gland, though small, is the master gland that controls nearly all hormone production in the body. When it malfunctions, the resulting hormonal imbalances can affect everything from metabolism and growth to fertility and stress response.

Our endocrinology program offers comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment for all pituitary conditions, with a primary goal of restoring healthy hormone levels and preserving pituitary function.

Expert Diagnosis and Specialized Treatment

Our endocrinology team is experienced in diagnosing and managing the full spectrum of pituitary tumors and disorders, working closely with neurosurgeons and other specialists to develop a customized treatment plan that may include medication, hormone replacement therapy, or, when necessary, minimally invasive surgery. If you or your primary care physician suspect a pituitary gland issue, let our specialized team provide the clarity and care you need to regain balance and health.

Schedule an Appointment