Descriptions of Tumors and Disorders

Microadenoma

Microadenomas are benign tumors that are 1 cm (less than half an inch) in diameter or smaller. Microadenomas may produce hormones and therefore are functioning tumors. . . . more  

Macroadenoma

Macroadenoma are benign tumors that are larger than 1 cm and may be either functioning or nonfunctioning. . . . more  

Pituitary Apoplexy

Pituitary apoplexy is the sudden onset of pituitary gland failure and neurological abnormalities due to hemorrhage (bleeding) . . . . more

Prolactinoma

A prolactinoma is a benign tumor of the pituitary gland that produces excessive amounts of a hormone. . . . more

Acromegaly and Gigantism

Acromegaly and gigantism are caused by a functioning tumor that produces excessive amounts of growth hormone (GH). . . . more  

Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome refers to symptoms caused by prolonged exposure of the body's tissues to high levels of the hormone cortisol (a steroid) and may be caused by several different disorders. . . . more  

Craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngiomas are rare, slow-growing, benign tumors that occur in the sella region. The sella turcica, which houses the pituitary gland, is a depression in the upper surface of the sphenoid bone at the base of the skull. . . . more

Rathke's Cleft Cyst

Rathke's cleft cyst is a benign (noncancerous) abnormality that develops within the sella turcica (the bone that houses the pituitary gland). . . . more

Nonpituitary Intrasellar Tumors

Tumors and conditions can occur within the sella turcica but are not pituitary tumors. . . . more

Thyroid-stimulating hormone-secreting (TSH) tumor

TSH secreting tumors are rare and represent only about 1 to 2% of all pituitary tumors. They may occur as microadenomas or macroadenomas. . . . more