The pituitary gland, also dubbed the master gland, is an important part of the endocrine system, ultimately governing all of the hormones in the body. But what exactly is it, what does it do, and where is it found?
What is the Pituitary Gland?
The pituitary gland is a pea-sized endocrine gland located in the centre of the skull base and secured in a bony depression known as the sella turcica. Each lobe of the gland is responsible for regulating the functions of other endocrine glands as well as maintaining overall hormone levels in the blood.
The anterior lobe is responsible for the following:
- Growth hormone – this is concerned with regulating a person’s height, bone and muscle building, and it also restricts the accumulation of body fat.
- Prolactin – this stimulates milk production after giving birth.
- ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) – this stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, which is essential to the body and also helps to regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
- TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) – it stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine, which regulates energy expenditure in the body.
- FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) – it assists in the development of a man or woman's sexual characteristics as well as regulates the sex hormones. In women, it stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs as well as regulates oestrogen levels. In men, it regulates sperm production.
- LH (luteinising hormone) – this stimulates the ovaries or testes, regulating the menstrual cycle, sperm production and sex hormone levels in males and females.
Source: Yashoda Hospitals
The posterior lobe is responsible for the release of hormones produced in the hypothalamus, such as:
- ADH (antidiuretic hormone) – this is responsible for increasing the absorption of water into the blood by the kidneys and helps the kidneys to maintain the correct water balance in the body.
- Oxytocin – it stimulates breast milk production in women and contracts the uterus during childbirth; it also helps counteract the physical effects of stress.
The intermediate lobe of the pituitary is made up of a group of endocrine cells known as melanotrophs, which secrete several bioactive peptides such as alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and beta-endorphin. The first protects the skin from UV radiation and produces melanin, which gives colour to the skin, eyes and hair. The latter hormone regulates emotions such as pain, hunger and stress.
What are Some of the Most Common Pituitary Conditions?
Your pituitary gland can be affected by a variety of medical conditions. The majority of these are caused by tumour cells in or around the pituitary gland, which interfere with hormone release. The following are the most common pituitary disorders:
Hypothyroidism
Primary or secondary hypothyroidism is caused by pituitary gland or hypothalamic dysfunction. It is marked by elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and reduced levels of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4).
Cushing’s Disease
This condition is characterised by excessive ACTH secretion caused by a pituitary gland tumour. As a result, the adrenal glands produce abnormally high levels of cortisol, which can cause hypertension, fatigue and weight gain.
Acromegaly
This condition is caused by a benign pituitary tumour that causes excessive growth hormone levels, resulting in hand and foot elongation.
Hyperprolactinemia
Prolactinoma is a benign pituitary tumour that accounts for up to 60% of all pituitary gland tumours. It secretes high levels of prolactin into the bloodstream, which causes primary or secondary amenorrhoea (irregular or no menstruation) by suppressing luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. A woman who develops hyperprolactinemia may experience infertility and low sex drive.
Hypophysitis
Hypophysitis is a rare inflammatory condition of the pituitary gland that is considered to be autoimmune in nature. It is characterised by the infiltration of immune cells into the pituitary gland and the formation of a mass that can resemble a pituitary tumour. This mass presses on the pituitary gland, resulting in hormonal imbalance.
How to Diagnose Pituitary Disorders
Most pituitary disorders have symptoms that develop slowly or are similar to those of other medical conditions. Consulting with a pituitary health specialist is critical for getting the answers you need and weighing your treatment options.
Any of the following procedures can be used to diagnose a pituitary gland disorder:
- Urine, saliva and blood tests measure hormone levels in the body. These tests can also determine cortisol levels and whether they may be indicative of a pituitary disorder.
- Imaging tests like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to diagnose pituitary tumours and see how they affect the surrounding area of the master gland. The images created assist doctors in developing a personalised treatment plan for their patients.
How to Keep Your Pituitary Gland Healthy
While some people are more susceptible to pituitary gland disorders than others, particularly those with genetic conditions, the following tips can help them keep their master gland healthy for a longer period of time.
Stick to a healthy diet
A healthy diet benefits your hormones as well as your overall health. Eat more fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, to increase your fibre intake. Limit your sodium intake and stay away from saturated and trans fats. It's also important to replenish fluids in your body by drinking up to eight cups of water per day.
Working with a nutritionist will assist you in determining your nutritional needs for your age.
Exercise regularly
Engaging in moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes per day stimulates the pituitary gland, causing endorphins to be released. These hormones provide pleasure, relieve pain and improve stress response. Walking, swimming, yoga and meditation are all excellent pituitary stimulation activities.
Lower your stress levels
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can cause a variety of health issues such as increased appetite, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, anxiety and depression. Spend time doing things you enjoy in the middle of a busy day. This will recharge your mind and body, allowing you to return to your responsibilities with joy and enthusiasm rather than stress and irritability.
Originally published on Feb 26, 2009
