Pituitary Disorders
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Why choose UCSF Health for pituitary tumor treatment?
UCSF Health is home to one of the most experienced pituitary disorder programs in the nation. Our specialists evaluate and treat more people each year than nearly any other institution, giving us an unparalleled depth of expertise.
Disorders of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus often affect hormone regulation and many important body functions, from metabolism to sleep. We care for all types of pituitary and hypothalamic disorders, including tumors, inflammatory conditions, hormonal imbalances and genetic syndromes, as well as the many symptoms and complications related to these diseases.
When you turn to us for care, you have access to the widest range of advanced treatment options. In fact, we developed several minimally invasive surgical techniques for pituitary tumors (adenomas) that are now used worldwide.
Why choose UCSF Health for pituitary tumor treatment?
UCSF Health is home to one of the most experienced pituitary disorder programs in the nation. Our specialists evaluate and treat more people each year than nearly any other institution, giving us an unparalleled depth of expertise.
Disorders of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus often affect hormone regulation and many important body functions, from metabolism to sleep. We care for all types of pituitary and hypothalamic disorders, including tumors, inflammatory conditions, hormonal imbalances and genetic syndromes, as well as the many symptoms and complications related to these diseases.
When you turn to us for care, you have access to the widest range of advanced treatment options. In fact, we developed several minimally invasive surgical techniques for pituitary tumors (adenomas) that are now used worldwide.
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High surgical volume
Our surgeons perform more than 250 pituitary procedures each year – a level of experience that leads to better outcomes for our patients.Team approach
Experts in neuroendocrinology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, radiation oncology and neuro-oncology work together to deliver coordinated care.Minimally invasive treatments
Our surgeons can often remove pituitary tumors through the nose, avoiding the need for incisions in the face or skull.Care for complex conditions
Our team is skilled in treating rare disorders, such as craniopharyngiomas (brain tumors near the pituitary gland), that aren't routinely seen at other programs.
Our treatments and services for pituitary disorders
At UCSF Health, our specialists use leading-edge tools and techniques to diagnose and treat pituitary and hypothalamic disorders. They offer a range of surgical and medical treatments to correct hormone imbalances and preserve pituitary function, helping improve your quality of life.
Pituitary tumor diagnosis and monitoring
Our neuroendocrinologists and neuroradiologists work together to quickly and accurately diagnose pituitary tumors. They provide close monitoring and follow-up care during and after treatment to manage symptoms, prevent complications and help you feel your best.
Our advanced diagnostic tools and techniques include:
Hormone stimulation tests. We use a variety of tests to evaluate pituitary gland function and identify tumors that make excess hormones, such as those associated with acromegaly, Cushing's syndrome and prolactinoma.
Dynamic pituitary imaging. This special type of MRI uses contrast dye that allows us to identify small tumors that may be difficult to see in standard imaging tests.
Inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS). This procedure uses catheters (thin tubes) to take blood samples from veins near your pituitary gland. IPSS enables us to identify where excess hormone production is happening in people with Cushing's syndrome, so we can make treatment more precise. UCSF Health is one of the few programs on the West Coast to offer IPSS.
Minimally invasive pituitary tumor surgery
Surgeons at UCSF Health have helped develop pituitary removal techniques that are now used worldwide, including endonasal transsphenoidal surgery and endoscopic pituitary surgery.
Surgeons perform these minimally invasive procedures through the nose, so you don't have visible scars on your face or neck. Our expert team offers you the procedure that best meets your needs.
Radiation therapy for pituitary tumors
We may recommend radiation therapy for pituitary tumors that can't be completely removed with surgery or that return after surgery. Our radiation oncologists use best-in-class radiation delivery systems, including CyberKnife and Gamma Knife. These treatments precisely target tumors while sparing healthy tissue.
Medical management for pituitary disorders
Medication, such as hormone replacement therapy, can help correct hormone imbalances and relieve symptoms. Medication may be the only treatment you need, or we may recommend combining medication with surgery or radiation therapy. Our team monitors you closely to make sure your medication plan is safe and effective.
Providers
Lewis S. Blevins, MD
Neuroendocrinology
Manish Aghi, MD, PhD
Brain and Tumor Neurosurgery • Neurosurgery
Tarun Arora, MD
Neurosurgery
Sandeep M. Kunwar, MD
Neurosurgery • Pediatric Neurosurgery
Excellence in patient care
250+
pituitary surgeries performed annually
Best in California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care
One of the nation’s best for diabetes care & endocrinology
Best in the West and No. 2 in the nation for neurology & neurosurgery
Related services
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
- Acromegaly
- Adrenal Insufficiency
- Craniopharyngioma
- Cushing Syndrome
- Diabetes Insipidus
- Growth Hormone Deficiency
- Hypogonadism
- Hypothyroidism
- Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion
Treatments
- CyberKnife
- Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
- Hormone Replacement Therapy
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Spiritual Care at UCSF
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