This information represents the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.

The treatment information in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your medical care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.

Your doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about your treatment options.

The treatment of a pituitary tumor is guided by whether it is a carcinoma (a malignant tumor) or adenoma (a benign tumor). Treatment of an adenoma depends on whether or not it makes a hormone and, if it does, which hormone it is. Treatment also may depend on whether it is a microadenoma or macroadenoma.

Pituitary tumors are treated by surgery, by medicines that block hormone secretion by the tumors or block the symptoms caused by these hormones, or by radiation therapy. Sometimes a combination of 2 or more of these treatments is used. Surgery is done to remove the tumor, while drugs can relieve symptoms and sometimes shrink the tumor.

After finding the tumor, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you. It is important to take time and think about all of the choices. You may want to get a second opinion. Because pituitary tumors are rare, not many doctors have much experience with them. Your doctor should not mind if you want to get a second opinion. You may not need to repeat tests because the results of your previous tests can be sent to the second doctor.

Also, no matter what treatment is used, it requires doctors who are experienced with treating pituitary tumors.

Last Medical Review: 02/17/2009
Last Revised: 02/17/2009