Pituitary tumors (adenoma's) are benign tumors that account for approximately 10%-20% of all brain tumors. There are several types of pituitary tumors, each having different effects on the body.

Listed below are the most common of pituitary tumors.

Pituitary Microadenoma:

less than 1cm in size

Pituitary Macroadenoma:

greater than 1cm in size. Macroadenoma’s can become quite large and spread into the cavernous sinus, which contains the carotid artery and cranial nerves. Macroadenoma’s can also compress the optic nerves and the patient will begin to lose peripheral vision if the tumor is not removed.

Pituitary Prolactinoma:

it is the most common of pituitary tumors. This benign tumor produces an overabundance of the hormone prolactin.

Other Pituitary Tumors:

appearing in or near the pituitary. These tumors can cause acromegaly or Cushing's syndrome, may block the flow of dopamine from prolactin secreting cells to the brain.