Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Pituitary Tumor
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
A pituitary tumor is an abnormal growth that develops within the pituitary gland. The pituitary is a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain. It secretes hormones into the bloodstream. These hormones control most of the other glands in the body that secrete hormones.
What is going on in the body?
The pituitary gland has three parts or lobes.
Pituitary tumors comprise about 10% of all brain tumors. They generally develop from the anterior lobe and are rarely caused by cancer. When the tumor enlarges, it generally grows upward. It can press on other structures, such as the optic nerves. The optic nerves carry visual signals, so vision is often affected. Pituitary tumors can also interfere with:
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
The exact cause of pituitary tumors is unknown. Women face a higher risk of developing pituitary tumors than men.