There are two main types of pituitary tumours.
- The first are active ones. These produce excessive hormones and cause the body to undergo major changes (for example, excessive growth hormones or thyroid hormones). These tumours must be removed to restore the body to its normal state.
- The second group of tumours are those not producing any hormones. They just grow in size gradually. These will cause problems by exerting pressure on vital structures like the nerves supplying the eyes and affect the visual field.
Both types of tumours need to be removed surgically. Only one type (Prolactinoma) can be treated with oral medications and this tumour will actually shrink.