Diagnosing a Pituitary Macroadenoma
In order to make a pituitary macroadenoma diagnosis, the doctor will usually ask the patient a number of questions about:
- His or her medical history
- Current symptoms he or she is experiencing
- Whether there is a family history of any medical problems
- Any medicines the patient is taking.
The doctor will also typically perform a physical exam, looking for any signs of a pituitary macroadenoma, and will order certain tests.
These tests can include:
- Blood tests to measure hormone levels
- Computed tomography (CT) scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
- Petrosal sinus samplings
- Eye exams.
Treating a Pituitary Macroadenoma
Different types of pituitary macroadenoma treatment options are available. Pituitary macroadenoma treatment options vary based on:
- The type of pituitary macroadenoma (see Types of Pituitary Tumors)
- The symptoms of its hormone activity
- How far the macroadenoma has spread into the brain
- The patient's age and overall health.
In general, treatments for a pituitary macroadenoma can include:
- Surgery (removing the macroadenoma in an operation)
- Radiation therapy (using high-dose x-rays to kill macroadenoma cells)
- Drug therapy.
Your doctor can describe your pituitary macroadenoma treatment choices and the expected results of each. You and the doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that best meets your medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate pituitary macroadenoma treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and healthcare team.
(Click Pituitary Tumor Treatment for more information on treatment options for the different types of pituitary macroadenomas.)
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