Pituitary Tumor Diagnosis

Pituitary tumors can be difficult to diagnose, particularly in the early stages, when the symptoms can be subtle. Blood tests used to diagnose these tumors can be complex, and they require special expertise to interpret.

At MD Anderson, expert endocrinologists (doctors who specialize in treating the glands that make hormones) analyze these blood tests. When they make a diagnosis, they work with experts from neurosurgery, neuroradiology, neuro-radiation oncology and pathology to develop a treatment plan tailored to each patient.

If you have symptoms that signal a pituitary tumor, your doctor will examine you and ask you questions about your health and your family history. One or more of the following tests may then be used to find out if you have a pituitary tumor and how large it is. These tests can also help determine if treatment is working.

Imaging exams

Imaging exams are used to look for tumors inside the body. They can also track how the body is responding to treatment. There are many types of imaging exams. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are the most common imaging exam used to diagnose pituitary tumors. Other specialized imaging exams are used to test for specific tumor subtypes. Learn more about imaging exams.

Blood, urine and saliva tests

Blood, urine and saliva tests can be used to measure your levels of hormones related to the pituitary gland. Elevated levels can signal a functioning pituitary tumor.