Does a pituitary tumor shorten life?
Having a pituitary tumor should not shorten life if it is properly treated and if the patient receives appropriate hormone replacement(s). In large population studies, it appears that patients who had conventional, radiation for pituitary tumors had an increased mortality (death) risk because of cerebrovascular disease (stroke). Pituitary hormone deficiency requires hormone(s) replacement. All medications must be taken as directed. Additionally, there is a need for regular medical care and monitoring of medical treatments. Most patients who have had a pituitary tumor engage in normal work and social activities. If a patient requires steroid (cortisol) replacement, a Medical alert bracelet or necklace should be worn at all times. Another illness such as the flu, pneumonia or an accident requires an increase in the steroid dose. If the patient is brought to the hospital and unable to give the medical history, the physicians will have no way of knowing that additional steroid is necessary
Having a pituitary tumor should not shorten life if it is properly treated and if the patient receives appropriate hormone replacement. All medications must be taken as directed. Additionally, there is a need for regular medical care and monitoring of medical treatments. Most patients who have had a pituitary tumor engage in normal work and social activities. If a patient requires steroid (cortisol) replacement, a “medic alert” bracelet or necklace should be worn at all times. Another illness such as the flu, pneumonia or an accident requires an increase in the steroid dose. If the patient is brought to the hospital and unable to give the medical history, the physicians will have no way of knowing that additional steroid is necessary. Thus, with attention to these important details, a patient with a pituitary tumor should have a full and productive life.
