Almost all tumours of the pituitary gland are benign, that is they are non-cancerous and do not spread. They are sometimes called adenomas. Pituitary tumours are either secreting or non-secreting tumours. They are most commonly found in young or middle aged adults. Like most brain tumours the cause of pituitary tumours is unknown.
Research continues into finding possible causes.
Signs and symptoms Signs and symptoms of pituitary tumours are either caused by direct pressure from the tumour itself or by a disruption in normal hormone levels. As the tumour grows it puts pressure onto the optic nerve and this often causes headaches and visual problems. Symptoms caused by a disruption in hormone levels usually take a long time to develop. Prolactin secreting tumours are the commonest type of secreting tumour. Women with this type of tumour may notice their monthly periods stop and they may also produce small amounts of breast milk.