Macroadenoma

Macroadenomas are tumors that develop in the pituitary gland, a pea-sized organ located behind the nose. They are almost always noncancerous.

Macroadenomas are pituitary adenomas (tumors) that are 10 mm or larger. Pituitary adenomas that are smaller than 10 mm are called microadenomas.

There are two kinds of pituitary macroadenomas:

• Functioning pituitary macroadenomas, which do secrete hormones
• Nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas, which don’t secrete hormones

Hormones secreted by functioning pituitary macroadenomas include:

• Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a hormone that regulates cortisone and the stress-response system
• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), a hormone that helps the body retain water and constrict blood vessels
• Human growth hormone (HGH), a hormone that stimulates the growth of cells
• Luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone, hormones that regulate the female reproductive system
• Prolactin, a hormone that stimulates lactation (milk production) and regulates the reproductive system
• Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), a hormone that can affect metabolism

Pituitary macroadenoma symptoms

Symptoms of a pituitary tumor include:

• Changes in hair growth
• Dry skin
• Growth in hands or feet
• Partial or complete blindness
• Sensitivity to cold
• Weight gain, particularly with loss of appetite
• In women, changes to the menstrual cycle or breasts
• In men, changes in sexual response, such as erectile dysfunction

Diagnosis of pituitary macroadenomas

First, you’ll meet with your doctor for a physical exam and to discuss your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend a vision screening to check if your eyesight has been affected, and blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels. A CT or MRI scan can help locate the tumor.

Services & treatment

Treatment for pituitary adenomas depends on the type of tumor. Some tumors can be shrunk with medication. Other options include:

• The Expanded Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEEA), Aurora’s minimally invasive surgery option that means no incisions, a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.
• CyberKnife^® radiosurgery, where a non-invasive, robotic system delivers high radiation therapy to tumors with pinpoint accuracy.
• Radiation therapy, where multiple narrow radiation beams (light energy) precisely target the tumor.
• Medications to manage hormone levels.

Because pituitary adenomas can reoccur, regular follow-up visits are recommended. Hormone replacement medication may also be required during and after treatment.