Pituitary Tumor Treatment

Getting diagnosed with a pituitary tumor can answer lots of questions. But it also creates more. Pituitary gland tumors aren't cancer. But they do require timely, effective treatment.

At UVA Health, we see patients with pituitary tumors from all over the world. For more than 20 years, we've been leaders in developing new treatments for pituitary tumors.

We also work to make your experience as convenient as possible. You get to see your whole team of neuroendocrinologists and neurosurgeons in the same visit at the same time.

Pituitary Tumor Treatment at UVA Health

Our experts are here to answer your questions and get you the treatment you need. We create personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs.

Treatment depends on:

• Size
• Location
• Type of tumor

If we need to remove the tumor, we can often do this through your nose. We don't have to perform open surgery. Sometimes we also use radiation to shrink the tumor. 

These tumors can affect your hormone levels. Sometimes these tumors make their own hormones. This can affect your mood, growth, and dozens of other bodily functions. Hormone therapy can work alone or after surgery. 

Another option you might have: Gamma Knife. 

What is a Pituitary Tumor?

The pituitary gland makes hormones that affect the way many parts of the body work. It also controls hormones made by other glands in the body. When it comes to pituitary gland tumors, over 99% are benign and curable.

If untreated, pituitary tumors can lead to:

• Blindness
• Severe headaches
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Abnormal cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Joint and bone issues
• Depression
• Memory loss
• Anemia
• Infertility
• Reduced longevity

But with prompt and proper pituitary tumor treatment, you can expect to live a normal, productive life.