Pituitary Tumor Treatment

For people with a pituitary tumor, treatment options may include drug therapy, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. The treatment option that is most appropriate for a particular patient will depend on factors such as the type of pituitary tumor involved, its symptoms, how far the tumor has spread, and the patient's age and general health. When surgery is used to remove a pituitary tumor, treatment may involve transsphenoidal surgery or a craniotomy.

 

Pituitary Tumor Treatment: An Overview

Different types of pituitary tumor treatment options are available. Pituitary tumor treatment options vary based on:
 
  • The type of pituitary tumor (see Types of Pituitary Tumors)
  • The symptoms of its hormone activity
  • How far the tumor has spread into the brain
  • The patient's age and overall health.
     
Your doctor can describe your pituitary tumor treatment choices and the expected results of each. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that best meets your medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate pituitary tumor treatment method is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and healthcare team.
 

Questions About Your Pituitary Tumor Treatment

Many people want to take an active role in making decisions about their medical care. They want to learn all they can about a pituitary tumor and the related treatment choices. However, the shock and stress that often accompany a pituitary tumor diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything to ask the doctor. Often, it helps to make a list of questions before an appointment with the doctor.
 
To help remember what the doctor says, people may take notes or ask whether they may use a tape recorder. Some people may also want to have a family member or friend with them when they talk to the doctor -- to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.
 
(Pituitary Tumor Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD