Pituitary tumours: when is radiotherapy used?

What are pituitary tumours?

The pituitary is a small gland at the base of the brain that controls many hormones. Its tumours, often called pituitary adenomas, are usually not cancer. Some produce excess hormones, while others cause symptoms because of their size or proximity to the nerves responsible for vision.

What is usually the first treatment?

It depends on the tumour type. Some prolactin-secreting tumours are treated first with medication. Surgery is the main option in other situations, especially if vision is affected or important structures are compressed. Small, stable tumours can sometimes be monitored.

When is radiotherapy considered?

Radiotherapy may be considered for growing residual tumour, recurrence after surgery or disease inadequately controlled by other treatments. Selected patients may be suitable for radiosurgery; others, especially when the tumour is close to the optic nerves, may be safer with radiation delivered over multiple sessions.

How quickly does treatment work?

Tumour shrinkage and reduction of excessive hormone production, when relevant, may take months or years. Follow-up often involves an endocrinologist, neurosurgeon, eye specialist and radiation oncologist.

What requires long-term follow-up?

Radiation can reduce normal pituitary hormone production, sometimes many years later, making regular hormone tests important. Protecting vision is also central to technique selection. Ask which hormone levels, scans and vision tests will be monitored.