Pituitary Tumor Symptoms

Pituitary Tumors

ACTH-Producing Tumors

When a pituitary tumor secretes ACTH (also known as Cushing's disease), a variety of symptoms can occur. Some of the pituitary tumor symptoms seen with high levels of ACTH include:

Extreme weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back
Excess hair growth
Purplish-pink stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and breasts
Acne
High blood pressure
Skin problems
Growth retardation
Either very early or late puberty
Sleep disturbances
Muscle weakness
Menstrual disorders in women
Osteoporosis
Moodiness, irritability, or depression
Diabetes
Decreased fertility in men
Diminished or absent desire for sex.

(Click Symptoms of Cushing's Disease for more information about symptoms caused by this type of pituitary tumor.)

Thyroid Hormone-Producing Tumors

Some pituitary tumors can disrupt the function of the thyroid gland by secreting thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This, in turn, enlarges the thyroid, causing a visibly large lump in the neck known as a goiter. These tumors may also produce other symptoms, including:

Nervousness
Rapid pulse
Weight loss
Excessive eating
Sweating
Frequent bowel movements
Sensitivity to heat.

Pituitary tumors that limit the secretion of TSH can also affect a person in many ways, including problems with concentration, tiredness, constipation, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. They may also cause girls to have irregular periods or not to menstruate at all.

(Pituitary Tumor Symptoms Continued: Page 3)
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