Pituitary tumors are noncancerous growths that occur in the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located in the brain behind the nose. There are several types of pituitary tumors. Some pituitary tumors affect the levels of hormones that control different functions of the body, causing hormone levels that are too high or too low.

Symptoms of pituitary tumors depend on the type. Some pituitary tumors do not cause any symptoms. Other pituitary tumors may make hormones that cause symptoms to occur. Some pituitary tumors may also cause pressure on nearby structures, such as the optic nerves. Symptoms of pituitary tumors can include vision problems, headache, nausea and vomiting, weight loss or weight gain, increased urine production, weakness, coldness, menstrual problems, sexual dysfunction, fat accumulation around the midsection and upper back, a round face, loss of muscle strength, thinning of arms and legs, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, acne, bruising, stretch marks, anxiety, irritability, depression, enlarged hands and feet, facial bone abnormalities, joint pain, heart problems, misaligned teeth, excessive body hair, abnormally fast growth in children, breast growth in men, frequent bowel movements, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, and sleep apnea.

Treatment for pituitary tumors depends on the type. Treatment for pituitary tumors may include watchful waiting; surgery; radiation therapy; medications, such as cabergoline, bromocriptine, ketoconazole, mitotane, metyrapone, osilodrostat, mifepristone, pasireotide, octreotide, lanreotide, pegvisomant, and hormone replacement therapies.