Concerned about Pituitary Adenomas?

Pituitary adenomas are usually non-cancerous tumors that occur in the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain that regulates various hormones. When an adenoma forms, it can disrupt the normal hormone balance, leading to various health issues. If you suspect you have a pituitary adenoma, are looking for a second opinion after diagnosis or are experiencing related symptoms, schedule a consultation with us at Virginia Neurosurgeons to discuss diagnosis and effective treatments.

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Why Choose Virginia Neurosurgeons in Arlington?

Virginia Neurosurgeons, founded in Arlington in 2001, stands as a renowned independent neurosurgical group providing premier care in Northern Virginia. Recognized as leaders in the field of neurosurgery, our board-certified surgeons bring extensive training from prestigious academic institutions. With over two decades of service, we have cared for more than 30,000 patients, emphasizing comprehensive, academic-level neurosurgical care in a compassionate environment. Our commitment to ethical and honest practices, combined with a focus on patient education, ensures that each individual receives the highest-quality, advanced treatment tailored to their specific case.

Our neurosurgeons aim to improve mobility, enhance quality of life, and provide relief from neurological dysfunction and pain. We approach each case with a dedication to preserving and restoring neurologic function, offering surgery only when it will result in a meaningful clinical benefit. At Virginia Neurosurgeons, we strive to make a positive impact on our patients' lives through principled care, open communication, and cutting-edge surgical interventions.

What Causes Pituitary Adenomas?

These tumors typically develop on the pituitary gland when there is an abnormal growth of cells, leading to the formation of a tumor. The exact cause is often unknown, but certain hereditary conditions may contribute to their development. Pituitary adenomas can broadly be characterized as non-functioning adenomas, which don’t secrete hormones, or functioning adenomas, which release specific hormones in excess quantities.  Even if the pituitary adenoma is non-functioning, if they grow large enough, they can disrupt the normal function of the pituitary gland, impacting hormone regulation. Symptoms develop according to the size of the adenoma and its impact on hormone production. Symptoms may include:

Hormonal Imbalances:

Depending on the type of hormone-producing cells affected, patients may experience changes in menstrual cycles, libido, or other hormonal functions.  

Vision Problems:

As the tumor grows, it may press against the optic nerves, causing vision issues.

Headaches:

If the tumor becomes large of suddenly swells, persistent and severe headaches are common due to increased pressure within the skull.

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Treatment for Pituitary Adenomas

Our first step for pituitary adenoma treatment is a comprehensive consultation and diagnosis process. This involves a detailed examination of medical history, hormone level assessments, vision evaluation, and advanced imaging techniques. Following an accurate diagnosis, a tailored treatment plan is crafted, incorporating the latest and most effective methods. The focus is on minimally invasive procedures, often involving endoscopy, to ensure precise tumor removal while minimizing impact on surrounding tissues. The treatment options may include:

  • Endoscopic Resection: Pituitary adenoma endoscopic resection is a modern and minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove tumors from the pituitary gland. Using an endoscope, a tiny camera and light source are inserted through the nasal passage, allowing surgeons to visualize and navigate to the tumor. This approach avoids the need for external incisions and reduces impact on surrounding tissues. The tumor is delicately removed, promoting quicker recovery and minimizing discomfort.
  • Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation may be employed to shrink or control the growth of the adenoma.
  • Medication: Hormone-regulating medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and control tumor growth.
  • Watchful Waiting: In cases where the tumor is small and not causing significant issues, a careful monitoring approach may be recommended.

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Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pituitary adenomas, take the first step toward comprehensive and compassionate care. Schedule a consultation with Virginia Neurosurgeons today. Our experienced and dedicated team is here to guide you through your diagnosis process and treatment options. Together, we can explore the most effective and tailored solutions to address your unique case. Don't let pituitary adenomas disrupt your life; your well-being is our priority, and we look forward to assisting you on your journey to improved health and enjoyment of life.

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