The pituitary gland is a small gland found in the base of the skull. This gland is regulated by part of the brain known as the hypothalamus, to which it is connected via a tiny vein called the ‘pituitary stalk’. The pituitary gland controls the release of the body’s hormones, which affect many functions including growth, development, sexuality and reproduction as well as metabolism, how we react to stress, and our overall quality of life. It’s sometimes described as the ‘master gland’ because it affects the brain, mind and body.
Pituitary disorders occur when the pituitary gland either produces too much or too little of a hormone. When there is little or no hormone production by the pituitary gland, this is known as ‘hypopituitarism’ or pituitary failure. Too little hormone can cause a wide range of symptoms. The doctors at our Abu Dhabi and Dubai medical centres have extensive experience dealing with a range of pituitary gland related conditions and can offer pituitary disorder treatments.
The pituitary gland produces the following hormones:
Growth hormone (GH): this helps a child to grow and develop normally and is responsible for many essential functions in adults including a normal metabolism and healthy muscles.
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): these hormones control the body’s production of sex hormones (oestrogen and testosterone) and fertility (sperm and egg development and release).
Prolactin (PRL): this is essential for breast changes during pregnancy and the production of breast milk.
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH): this enables the thyroid to release hormones that are essential for the body’s metabolism, as well as for growth and development.
Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH): this stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, essential for many functions including regulating carbohydrate, fat and protein and the stress response.
Vasopressin: this is sometimes known as ‘anti-diuretic hormone’ (ADH) and is essential to keep the balance of water and electrolytes in the body.
If you would like to know more about the pituitary disorder treatments and services that we provide, whether you suffer from Hyperprolactinaemia, Cushing’s Syndrome or Thyrotrophinoma, please contact us. Our consultants have extensive experience and expertise in treating pituitary disorders. We’ll work with work with you to ensure you receive the best possible care.
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