Why is the pituitary gland so important?
From its lofty position above the rest of the body it sends signals to the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, ovaries and testes, directing them to produce thyroid hormone, cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and many more. These hormones have dramatic effects on metabolism, blood pressure, sexuality, reproduction, and other vital body functions. In addition, the pituitary gland produces growth hormone for normal development of height and prolactin for milk production. The pituitary is the control center for the endocrine system, which controls all of the hormones produced in the body. Is pituitary surgery the only cure for Cushing’s? YES. Researchers are currently doing clinical trials with medications, but the use of that medicine to cure Cushing’s could be years and years away. When and where will you have surgery? I plan to have pituitary surgery in the Spring of 2009. March or April. Lucky for me, a very skilled neurosurgeon works right here in Houston at MD Anderson Cancer Center. My h
