The Basics

The pituitary gland secretes hormones which carry messages around the body via the bloodstream. It controls several hormone glands in the body, including the thyroid, adrenals, ovaries and testes, so is often described as the master gland.

Causes of Pituitary Conditions
There are a range of causes for pituitary conditions, the most common being a non-cancerous tumour. Other causes include traumatic brain injury.
Major Endocrine Glands and Other Organs
There are a number of endocrine glands across the body which work together to secrete hormones. There are also several organs that contain endocrine tissue.
What are Hormones?
Hormones are chemicals which circulate in the blood stream and spread around the body to carry messages or signals to different parts of the body.
What is the Pituitary Gland?
The pituitary gland secretes hormones which carry messages around the body via the bloodstream. It controls several hormone glands in the body, including the thyroid, adrenals, ovaries and testes, so is often described as the master gland.

Pituitary conditions

Pituitary disorders are considered rare. It is estimated that there are around 70,000 pituitary patients in the United Kingdom. Some conditions are more common than others. You can find out more by clicking the conditions below.

Acromegaly
Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that results from too much Growth Hormone in the body. It can cause parts of the body to grow abnormally.
Adrenal Insufficiency
Adrenal Insufficiency is the failure of the adrenal glands to function properly. This can result in a lack or cortisol and aldosterone.
Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency
Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency is usually caused by damage to the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus.
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