Pituitary Adenoma

Overview

A pituitary adenoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour that arises from the pituitary gland — a small but vital hormone-producing gland at the base of the brain. These tumours can affect hormone levels and may grow large enough to press on nearby structures, including the optic nerves, leading to vision changes or headaches.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury, we provide fast access to MRI brain imaging, hormone testing, neurology and endocrine review, and onward surgical referral where necessary — all managed privately, quickly and with a focus on your long-term health and quality of life.

Why Prompt Diagnosis Matters

• Identifies hormonal imbalances early, before they cause long-term damage
• Protects eyesight from pressure on the optic nerves
• Helps explain unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or fertility issues
• Reduces risk of pituitary apoplexy (sudden haemorrhage into the tumour)
• Enables access to surgery or medication before symptoms worsen

Symptoms You Might Notice

Pituitary adenomas often develop slowly and may cause one or more of the following:

• Persistent headaches not relieved by over-the-counter painkillers
• Visual disturbances – especially loss of peripheral vision (bitemporal hemianopia)
• Unexplained fatigue, weakness or dizziness
• Changes in menstrual cycle or fertility problems
• Unexpected weight gain or loss
• Breast discharge (galactorrhoea) when not breastfeeding
• Loss of libido or erectile dysfunction
• Overgrowth of hands, feet, jaw, or tongue (acromegaly – in growth hormone-secreting tumours)

In some cases, symptoms are found during routine eye exams or blood tests.

Types Of Pituitary Adenomas

• Non-functioning adenomas – do not secrete hormones but may cause symptoms by growing large
• Prolactinomas – raise prolactin levels and affect menstruation, libido and breast tissue
• Growth hormone-secreting tumours – cause acromegaly
• ACTH-secreting tumours – lead to Cushing’s disease (excess cortisol)
• TSH-secreting tumours – cause overactive thyroid (rare)

When To Seek Medical Advice

Phone 01295 252 281 if you:

• Have unexplained fatigue, vision changes or hormone-related symptoms
• Have been told you have a possible adenoma and need further investigation
• Want to discuss scan results and arrange a personalised treatment plan
• Are experiencing symptoms of pituitary insufficiency (low cortisol, low thyroid, etc.)

How We Diagnose And Monitor Pituitary Adenoma

1. Consultant Neurology Or Endocrinology Review – symptom check, visual field testing and examination in our Neurology Service.
2. On-Site MRI Brain Scan – high-resolution pituitary imaging in our Imaging Centre, interpreted by specialist neuroradiologists.
3. Blood Hormone Testing – prolactin, cortisol, growth hormone, thyroid hormones and sex hormones through our Blood-Testing Service
4. Visual Field Testing – coordinated with local ophthalmology partners if peripheral vision loss is suspected.
5. Endocrine Function Assessment – to determine if the tumour is hormone-secreting or causing pituitary insufficiency.
6. Structured Follow-Up – monitoring of hormone levels and tumour size, usually every 6–12 months or as recommended.

Treatment And Ongoing Support

Treatment depends on the size, type, and effects of the adenoma:

Medical Therapy

• Dopamine agonists (e.g. cabergoline) for prolactinomas
• Hormone-blocking or replacement medications as needed

Surgical Referral

• Referral to a regional neurosurgical or endocrine surgery team for transsphenoidal resection, if the tumour is large, causing compression or not responding to medication
• Pre- and post-op monitoring coordinated at The New Foscote Hospital

Rehabilitation & Support

• Ongoing hormone monitoring and adjustment
• Nutritional support with the Dietetic Team
• Sleep and fatigue management through the Private GP Service
• Psychological support if living with a chronic endocrine condition

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• On-site MRI, blood testing, and consultant-led care in one location
• Seamless onward referral to endocrine/neurosurgical centres if required
• Personalised care plans with regular monitoring and follow-up
• Calm, discreet and private setting with flexible appointments
• Free on-site parking and no waiting lists

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pituitary adenomas cancerous?
No — the vast majority are benign. However, they can still affect your health by interfering with hormones or pressing on nearby structures.

Will I need surgery?
Only if the tumour is large, growing, causing visual problems or unresponsive to medical therapy. Many are monitored or treated with medication.

Can pituitary tumours cause fatigue and weight gain?
Yes. Hormonal imbalances — particularly of cortisol, thyroid hormones and growth hormone — can affect energy, mood and metabolism.

Take Control Of Your Hormone Health

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to book a private consultation for pituitary adenoma assessment and tailored management.