Treatment for Pituitary Tumors
The treatment for a pituitary tumor at the Johns Hopkins Pituitary Tumor Center will depend on many factors, including:
- The location of the tumor
- Whether the pituitary tumor produces excessive amounts of a specific hormone
- The patient’s general health and preferences regarding potential treatment options
Because having a pituitary tumor can affect many different organs and systems in the body, doctors from several medical specialties will work together to develop a customized treatment plan for the patient.
After surgery or radiation therapy, the patient might need to take medication to control the balance of hormones in the body. The patient might be able to stop taking medication eventually. The doctor will perform MRI scans and blood and urine tests after treatment to determine how well the patient’s pituitary gland is working.
For a small pituitary tumor that does not cause any significant signs or symptoms, observation — keeping a close watch on the tumor without any immediate treatment — might be an option. If the pituitary tumor does not grow, the patient may never need treatment.
Treatment Plans for Pituitary Tumors
A team of doctors at Johns Hopkins will work together to recommend the most effective and safest treatment options for each patient. The Pituitary Tumor Center team will also monitor the treatment.
Doctors who specialize in pituitary tumors will help the patient understand the pituitary tumor. They will discuss the recommended treatment plan and other options so that the patient can make good decisions about care.
A nurse or physician assistant will work closely with the doctors to coordinate each patient’s care. This includes making appointments to see other doctors at Johns Hopkins or for tests or treatments. The patient will receive written information about pituitary tumors, treatments, Johns Hopkins and support services.