Types of Pituitary Tumors

1. Functioning Tumors – Secrete excess hormones (e.g., prolactinomas, GH-secreting tumors).

2. Non-Functioning Tumors – Do not produce hormones but can press on nearby structures.

3. Pituitary Carcinomas – Very rare malignant tumors.

Diagnosis of Pituitary Tumors

• MRI/CT Scan of the Brain: Detects tumor size and location.

• Hormone Blood Tests: Prolactin, cortisol, growth hormone, thyroid and sex hormones.

• Visual Field Testing: To check optic nerve involvement.

• Stimulation/Suppression Tests: Confirm abnormal hormone secretion.

Treatment Options for Pituitary Tumors in India

1. Surgery

• Transsphenoidal Surgery (Endoscopic): Minimally invasive removal through the nasal passage; standard for most tumors.

• Craniotomy: For large or complex tumors not accessible by endoscopy.

2. Medications

• Dopamine Agonists (Cabergoline, Bromocriptine): For prolactinomas.

• Somatostatin Analogs (Octreotide, Lanreotide): For growth hormone-secreting tumors.

• Adrenal enzyme inhibitors: To control cortisol in Cushing’s disease.

3. Radiation Therapy

• Stereotactic Radiosurgery (Gamma Knife, CyberKnife): Precise, non-invasive radiation.

• External Beam Radiation: For residual or recurrent tumors.

4. Hormone Replacement Therapy

• For patients with reduced pituitary function post-surgery or radiation.

Cost of Pituitary Tumor Treatment in India

Table 1: Average Pituitary Tumor Treatment Cost in India

Factors Affecting Pituitary Tumor Treatment Cost

1. Tumor size and type – Functioning tumors may need lifelong medication in addition to surgery.

2. Type of surgery – Endoscopic transsphenoidal is less invasive but requires high expertise.

3. Need for radiation – Advanced stereotactic radiosurgery increases overall cost.

4. Hormone therapy – Lifelong replacement therapy adds to long-term expenses.

5. Hospital location – Metro cities with specialized neurosurgical centers may charge more.