The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain. As the “master gland” of the endocrine system, it secretes hormones that regulate many key physiological processes in the body.
The pituitary gland has two lobes - the anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary produces hormones including:
- Growth hormone (GH) - stimulates growth and cell reproduction
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) - stimulates the thyroid gland
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) - stimulates the adrenal glands
- Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) - regulate sexual development and function
- Prolactin - stimulates breast milk production
Meanwhile, the posterior pituitary releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus, including
oxytocin and
antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
Dysfunction of the pituitary gland can lead to various disorders. For example, oversecretion of GH in childhood leads to
gigantism or
acromegaly in adults. Undersecretion of GH causes
growth hormone deficiency.
Hyperpituitarism refers to overactivity of the anterior pituitary, while
hypopituitarism is underactivity.
The endocrinologists at
Vitality Hormone Clinic are experts in diagnosing and treating pituitary disorders. Our comprehensive hormone testing can accurately assess pituitary function. We provide individualized treatment plans that may include medications and/or surgery to restore normal hormone levels. With our help, patients can get their pituitary issues under control and resume living a full, active life again!
Some key facts about the pituitary gland:
- Weighs 0.5g in adults, about the size of a pea
- Also known as the “master gland” due to its hormonal influence
- Regulates processes including growth, metabolism, reproduction, lactation, and stress response
- Sits in a small bony hollow in the skull base called the sella turcica
- Connected to the hypothalamus of the brain by the pituitary stalk
The anterior and posterior pituitary work together with the hypothalamus in the
hypothalamic-pituitary axis. The hypothalamus produces hormones that either stimulate or inhibit pituitary hormone release, thereby regulating downstream endocrine glands.
Signs and symptoms of pituitary problems depend on which hormones are involved, but may include:
- Changes in menstrual cycle and sexual function
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Fatigue, muscle weakness
- Headaches
- Vision changes or loss
Causes of pituitary disorders include:
- Pituitary adenomas - benign tumors that secrete excess hormones
- Pituitary apoplexy - bleeding into or impaired blood supply of the gland
- Head injuries
- Inflammation (hypophysitis)
- Genetic mutations
Diagnosis involves blood tests of pituitary and target gland hormone levels, as well as MRI imaging of the pituitary. Treatment aims to restore normal hormone balance, which may require medications, surgery, radiation therapy, or hormone replacement.
The experienced endocrinologists at Vitality Hormone Clinic provide complete pituitary care. If you are experiencing symptoms like unexplained weight changes, infertility, headaches, or fatigue, we can help identify the cause with our advanced testing capabilities. Our compassionate, multi-disciplinary team will get to the bottom of your issues and craft a personalized treatment plan to help you regain your health. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation!