The main functions of the body and the processes of energy metabolism in it are controlled by a tiny endocrine gland in the brain - the pituitary gland. It is he who produces the vital hormones necessary for the normal functioning of all systems of the human body. Like any similar structure, this gland is prone to benign neoplasms. Therefore, the endocrinologist is often asked what is dangerous microadenoma of the pituitary gland and whether it can independently degenerate into a malignant tumor.
The consequences of the presence of a pituitary microadenoma in the brain
The term "microadenoma" means that the neoplasm is small, up to 10 mm in diameter. Accordingly, it does not compress the surrounding tissues of the brain, nerve endings and blood vessels.
Nevertheless, even an insignificant microadenoma of the pituitary gland can have consequences if it is hormonally active:
- disorders of vision and smell;
- blunt headaches and dizziness;
- hyperprolactinemia;
- pathology of physical development and growth;
- dryness and pallor of the skin;
- increased fatigue;
- sexual disorders;
- diabetes insipidus ;
- apoplexy;
- abrupt changes in body weight;
- nausea and vomiting;
- cold intolerance;
- deterioration of appetite;
- thyroid disease.
Consequences after the operation to remove the pituitary microadenoma
The only treatment option for the described pathology is surgery, involving the complete removal of a benign neoplasm. Modern methods are minimally invasive, so they usually do not provoke negative consequences.
In very rare cases, as a rule, because of the unprofessionalism of the surgeon, the following problems are observed:
- liquorrhea;
- damage to healthy pituitary tissue;
- infection;
- visual impairment;
- cerebrovascular disorders of the brain .