Pituitary anatomy illustration

The Master Gland: Pituitary Gland Function and Anatomy

Home Treatment The Master Gland: Pituitary Gland Function and Anatomy

Why is the pituitary gland called the master gland?

The Pituitary Gland is at the anatomical and functional crossroads of the brain, mind and body. Weighing less than one gram and measuring a centimeter in width, the pituitary is often called the “master gland” since it regulates the secretion of the body’s hormones.

These substances when released by the pituitary into the bloodstream have a dramatic and broad range of effects on growth and development, sexuality and reproductive function, metabolism, the response to stress and overall quality of life.

Pituitary gland anatomy and function

This small, bean-shaped gland is located below the brain in the skull base, in an area called the sella turcica. The pituitary gland is regulated by a brain region called the hypothalamus which is connected to the pituitary gland by a thin delicate vascular connection called the pituitary stalk or infundibulum.

The pituitary is divided into a larger anterior region (adenohypophysis) and smaller posterior region (neurohypophysis). Directly above the pituitary are the optic nerves and the optic chiasm as they project to the eyes.

On each side of the pituitary is the cavernous sinus which is a venous channel through which runs the carotid arteries that carry blood to the brain, and important nerves that control eye movements and facial sensation.

Because of the proximity of the pituitary to these major intracranial nerves and blood vessels, and the vital hormonal control the pituitary provides, disorders of the pituitary can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms, both hormonal and neurological.

Medical illustration of the pituitary gland
Pituitary Gland and Related Structures

Hormonal Deficiency At A Glance*

HORMONAL DEFICIENCY
SYMPTOMS
TREATMENT

Growth Hormone (GH):

This is the principal hormone that, among many other functions, regulates body and brain development, bone maturation, metabolism and is essential for healthy muscles.

Children: Growth delay

Adults: Decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, elevated cholesterol, low bone density (osteoporosis), impaired psychological well-being,poor quality of life

Recombinant Human Growth Hormone- Given once daily as an injection under the skin

Luteinizing Hormone (Lh) And Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH):

These hormones control the production of sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone) as well as sperm and egg maturation and release.

Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, irregular or absent menses, decreased body hair, decreased muscle strength, hot flashes, mood changes

Men: Testosterone- Given as either topical gel or patch or injections

Women: Estrogen + Progesterone-Given as either topical patch or pills

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH):

This hormone triggers the adrenal glands (located above the kidneys) to release the hormone cortisol which in turn, regulates carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism and is essential in the stress response.

Poor appetite, nausea, weakness, vomiting, low blood sugar, low blood pressure, dizziness, body aches

Hydrocortisone or Prednisone-Given as daily pills

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH):

This hormone stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones control basal metabolic rate and play an important role in growth and maturation. Thyroid hormones affect almost every organ in the body.

Fatigue, weakness, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, heavy/painful menses, weight gain, memory loss, mood disturbance

Levothyroxine: Given as daily pills (some examples include Synthroid or Levoxyl or Levothroid or Armour Thyroid)

Prolactin (PRL):

This hormone stimulates secretion of breast milk.

Inability to lactate

No treatment available

Vasopressin – Also Called Anti-Diuretic Hormone (ADH):

This hormone promotes water reabsorption by the kidneys and is thus essential in water and electrolyte balance.

Increased thirst and frequent urination

DDAVP: Given either as daily pills or nasal spray

*In disease states, the pituitary may under- or over-produce hormones. Decreased pituitary hormone production is called hypopituitarism or pituitary failure. The symptoms and treatment of specific hormonal deficits and described below.

The Master Gland: Pituitary Gland Function and Anatomy

Improving pituitary gland function is essential for maintaining overall hormonal balance in the body. The pituitary gland is found in your brain and plays a vital role in regulating various body functions by producing a number of hormones. These hormones secreted from the pituitary gland control blood pressure, growth, energy management, and the activity of other endocrine glands like the thyroid.

Ways to support pituitary gland health:

  • Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet is rich in essential nutrients like healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins, particularly vitamin D and iodine, which support thyroid and overall gland function.
  • Manage Stress: High levels of stress can affect pituitary gland health by increasing cortisol levels, which can interfere with hormone balance. Engage in stress-relief activities such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.
  • Regular Sleep: Getting adequate sleep helps regulate the pituitary gland’s production of hormones like growth hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water keeps the body hydrated, which is important for proper hormone regulation and metabolic functions controlled by the pituitary gland.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you suspect any imbalances in pituitary function, such as unusual fatigue, weight changes, or hormonal issues, speak with your doctor. They can recommend specific tests to assess pituitary gland performance and suggest treatments or supplements.

What is the most common pituitary issue?

The most common pituitary issue is pituitary adenoma, a typically benign (non-cancerous) tumor of the pituitary gland. These tumors can disrupt the normal production of hormones, either causing an overproduction or underproduction of hormones.


How do you know if you have a low functioning pituitary gland?

A low-functioning pituitary gland, also known as hypopituitarism, occurs when the pituitary gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to regulate essential body functions. Since the pituitary gland is found in your brain and plays a crucial role in regulating the functions of other endocrine glands, its dysfunction can affect various aspects of your health.

Common signs that your pituitary gland is underperforming include:

  • Fatigue and Weakness: Since the pituitary gland produces hormones that control energy management, low hormone levels can cause persistent fatigue.
  • Unexplained Weight Changes: If the thyroid stimulating hormone is affected, you may experience sudden weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
  • Low Blood Pressure: The hormones secreted from the pituitary gland control blood pressure, so if these levels drop, low blood pressure or dizziness may occur.
  • Reproductive Changes: For women, irregular menstrual cycles or infertility may signal low pituitary gland function. For men, decreased libido or erectile dysfunction could indicate an issue.
  • Growth Issues: The pituitary gland also controls growth hormone, so children with low pituitary function may experience slow growth or delayed puberty.

If you suspect a low-functioning pituitary gland, consult your doctor for tests that assess your hormone levels. Blood tests can determine if your pituitary gland is underproducing key hormones. Early detection and treatment can restore balance, improve your overall health, and prevent complications from developing.

What is the most common indicator of a pituitary tumor?

The most common indicator of a pituitary tumor is unexplained changes in hormone levels, as the pituitary gland produces a number of hormones and regulates various body functions. Tumors can disrupt the normal production of pituitary hormones in a patient, leading to noticeable symptoms and conditions.

Key signs of a pituitary tumor include:

  • Vision Problems: As the pituitary gland is found near the optic nerves in your brain, a growing tumor may press against these nerves, causing blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision.
  • Headaches: Persistent headaches are a common medical sign of a pituitary tumor. These headaches may result from pressure the tumor places on surrounding brain structures.
  • Unexplained Hormonal Changes: Tumors often affect pituitary gland function, causing either an overproduction or underproduction of hormones. This imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms, depending on the specific hormone affected.
    • Growth Hormone: Overproduction may result in acromegaly (enlarged hands, feet, or facial features).
    • Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone: This could cause hyperthyroidism, leading to weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and sweating.

Fatigue and Weakness: Since the pituitary gland produces hormones that control energy management, a tumor can interfere with normal energy levels, causing constant fatigue.