Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain and about the size of a pea. The pituitary gland is part of the endocrine system, which makes and controls hormones regulating various functions in the body.

Pituitary tumors are usually benign (not cancerous) and very small. They do not typically spread to other areas of the body or cause symptoms. Benign pituitary tumors are also called adenomas. They develop most often in adults, but can occur at any age.

Doctors estimate that 1 in 4 people may have a pituitary tumor without ever knowing. That said, some tumors do require treatment.

If treatment is needed, it generally involves surgery, radiation therapy, and drug therapy. We often recommend a combination of these treatments, based on the specific details discovered during diagnosis. You and your doctor work together to identify the best option for you, based on factors including:

• Size of the tumor
• Location of the tumor
• Whether the tumor produces a hormone
• Type of hormone the tumor produces