Pituitary Tumors
The neurosurgeons at Richmond University Medical Center specialize in treating pituitary tumors. The Brain and Spine Center – located at 355 Bard Avenue in Staten Island – is a trusted resource for the local NYC community. Our team of neurologists and neurosurgeons are trained on the latest pituitary tumor advancements to deliver the best possible care.
Types Of Pituitary Tumors
The pituitary gland plays a vital role in the endocrine system and the production of hormones. So when a tumor begins to grow, it can lead to a host of complications regardless of whether it’s benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign pituitary tumors – called adenomas – are much more common than their malignant counterpart – carcinoma.
Depending on the tumor’s location in the gland, any of the following hormones can be affected: growth hormones, prolactin, sex hormones, vasopressin and adrenal and thyroid gland hormones, among others. As a result, patients will present differently based on which hormones are impacted.
In addition, because the pituitary gland is situated just above the nasal passage and near the optic nerves, visual impairment and headaches may be symptoms of a pituitary tumor.
Pituitary Tumor Treatment In NYC
A multidisciplinary combination of drug therapy, radiation therapy and surgery are usually used to treat a pituitary tumor. If the tumor is overproducing hormones and/or pressing on the optic nerves, the neurosurgeons at Richmond University Medical Center will often decide to operate. This is done in one of two ways:
Transsphenoidal. This is a non-invasive procedure that attempts to remove the tumor through the sphenoid sinus. Either a very small incision is required or no incision at all. Transphenoidal surgery is ideal for smaller tumors that haven’t spread into surrounding tissues.
Craniotomy. For large or complicated pituitary tumors, making an incision and removing a portion of the skull to access the tumor is typically most effective.
Learn More
Pituitary tumor treatment in Staten Island is just a phone call away. For more information about the state-of-the-art care available at Richmond University Medical Center, call (718)-818-4000 today.
