Pituitary Adenoma - How Can Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery Help?

The pituitary gland is a pea-sized organ located in the brain. This gland plays a very important role in the body – it regulates the balance of other hormones in the body. This is why it is called a master gland. Therefore, by its function, the pituitary gland is responsible for important processes such as growth, reproduction, and development. 

What are pituitary adenomas?

A pituitary adenoma is a tumour on the pituitary. Usually, these tumours are benign – they are not cancerous. But when they increase in size, they can put pressure on nerves located nearby and cause problems. Usually, it’s the nerves that connect the brain to the eyes.

A large adenoma can also crush healthy pituitary cells and prevent them from working properly. This can lead to fatigue, low libido, and low blood pressure.

Of all the tumours in the skull, pituitary adenomas make up 10% - 15% of them.

Causes of pituitary adenoma

The exact cause of this condition has not yet been identified. But there are studies that have linked DNA changes to it. A change in the DNA can cause the cells to multiply abnormally, resulting in a tumour. This DNA change can be hereditary or develop on its own during your lifetime.

Symptoms

The symptoms depend on the effect the tumour has on nearby nerves or the hormone the tumour releases. 

Some symptoms of this condition are 

• Infertility

• Fatigue

• Early-onset of menopause

• You lose weight without any reason

• Nausea

• Headaches

• Problems in vision

Endoscopic Skull base surgery

This surgery is a treatment procedure for pituitary adenomas. it is performed through the nose. It is a minimally invasive surgery where the surgeon inserts an endoscope and light through the nose and removes the tumour with surgical instruments.

Once the surgery is complete, your vital signs will be monitored regularly. Post-surgery you may notice symptoms like nausea, headache, and congestion. Hormone replacement medication may be prescribed if the pituitary gland doesn’t function properly. You will be discharged 1-2 days after the surgery.

You will need to follow up with your doctor after the surgery. There is a tendency of crusts forming in the nose, which can lead to congestion. An ENT specialist can remove them from the nasal cavities.