What tests are done for pituitary function?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or high-resolution computerized tomography (CT) of your brain can detect a pituitary tumor or other pituitary gland problems. Vision tests. These tests can determine if growth of a pituitary tumor has impaired your sight or visual fields.
How do you know if your pituitary gland is not working?
In adults, symptoms include low energy, decreased strength and exercise tolerance, weight gain, decreased muscle mass, and feelings of anxiety or depression.
What is empty sella syndrome?
Empty sella syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by enlargement or malformation of a structure in the skull known as the sella turcica. The sella turcica is a saddle-shaped depression located in the bone at the base of skull (sphenoid bone), in which resides the pituitary gland.
What autoimmune disease affects the hypothalamus?
Central diabetes insipidus. This type of diabetes is a rare autoimmune disorder where your immune system damages your hypothalamus.
What are the symptoms of a low functioning pituitary gland?
Symptoms of low pituitary hormones include fatigue, dizziness, dry skin, irregular periods in women, and sexual dysfunction in men. Other symptoms depend on the hormone that is affected. ACTH -producing tumors can cause Cushing’s disease.
How do you test for pituitary tumor?
To diagnose a pituitary tumor, your doctor will likely take a detailed history and perform a physical exam. He or she might order: Blood and urine tests. These tests can determine whether you have an overproduction or deficiency of hormones.
What is lab test for pituitary gland?
Lab tests might be done to check the hormone levels in your blood. An imaging test, such as an MRI or CT scan*, can show a growth on the pituitary. These tests can confirm the diagnosis of a pituitary adenoma. If you are having problems with your sight, the doctor might also have you take a visual field test to check your eye function.
What is the blood test for pituitary tumor?
Blood Tests Blood tests help doctors detect many hormonal abnormalities associated with pituitary tumors. For example, a blood test can reveal high levels of the hormone prolactin, which occurs in a condition called hyperprolactinemia. This can indicate the presence of a pituitary tumor called a prolactinoma.