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Pituitary Tumors and the Thyroid

A healthy thyroid gland depends upon a normal pituitary gland. Therefore, tumors on the pituitary gland can cause a thyroid disorder. However, according to the Pituitary Network Association (PNA), pituitary tumors are usually benign and are treatable.

  1. Function

    • According to the PNA, the pituitary gland directly affects thyroid gland health by producing hormones. These hormones are called TSH, or thyroid-stimulating hormones.

    Cause

    • The PNA reports that pituitary tumors may be caused by head injuries, infections, radiation, or brain inflammation.

    Symptoms

    • According to neurosurgerytoday.org, symptoms of a pituitary tumor may include early menopause, abnormal periods, joint aches, depression, frequent headaches, sudden weight changes, excessive fatigue, vision problems, osteoporosis, sensitive skin, carpal tunnel syndrome, and nausea. Some of these symptoms are similar to that of a thyroid disorder.

    Prognosis

    • The PNA reports that you will likely survive pituitary tumors if they are detected early. However, late detection can cause blindness, thyroid disease, brain dysfunction, or death in severe cases.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Pituitary tumors are treated with surgery, medicines, or radiation therapy. If the pituitary gland is destroyed during these processes, your body will lack TSH, and your thyroid may become over-active. Therefore, it is imperative that your thyroid is treated in conjunction with your pituitary gland.

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