Pituitary Disorders
The pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, controls many of the body's other hormone glands, including the thyroid, adrenal glands, and reproductive hormones, as well as producing growth hormone and prolactin directly. Problems can arise from tumours that either over- or under-produce hormones, or press on surrounding structures.
Common pituitary conditions
- pituitary tumours (adenomas), usually benign growths
- acromegaly, excess growth hormone
- Cushing's syndrome, excess cortisol originating from the pituitary gland.
What we offer
- the correct first-line pituitary hormone blood tests
- referral for pituitary MRI and visual field testing where indicated
- clear explanation and coordinated specialist referral throughout.
Specialist pituitary assessment
Pituitary symptoms can be non-specific and diagnosis depends on combining the clinical history with correctly timed hormone tests and, when indicated, pituitary imaging. Assessment may cover cortisol, thyroid, prolactin, growth hormone, gonadal function, fluid balance, medicines, vision and previous pregnancy or head injury.
Coordinated treatment and monitoring
Care depends on whether a lesion produces excess hormone, causes hormone deficiency or affects nearby structures. Treatment may involve observation, medicines, neurosurgery, radiotherapy or long-term hormone replacement, coordinated with pituitary surgery, ophthalmology or oncology services where appropriate.
UK-wide video consultations
Initial assessment and most result reviews can take place securely by video across the UK. Blood tests, visual-field testing and imaging are arranged locally when required. Sudden severe headache, new visual loss, collapse or marked confusion requires urgent emergency assessment.
Specialist pituitary assessment
Pituitary symptoms can be non-specific and diagnosis depends on combining the clinical history with correctly timed hormone tests and, when indicated, pituitary imaging. Assessment may cover cortisol, thyroid, prolactin, growth hormone, gonadal function, fluid balance, medicines, vision and previous pregnancy or head injury.
Coordinated treatment and monitoring
Care depends on whether a lesion produces excess hormone, causes hormone deficiency or affects nearby structures. Treatment may involve observation, medicines, neurosurgery, radiotherapy or long-term hormone replacement, coordinated with pituitary surgery, ophthalmology or oncology services where appropriate.
UK-wide video consultations
Initial assessment and most result reviews can take place securely by video across the UK. Blood tests, visual-field testing and imaging are arranged locally when required. Sudden severe headache, new visual loss, collapse or marked confusion requires urgent emergency assessment.