Pituitary Tumor Diagnosis

Pituitary tumors can be difficult to diagnose, particularly in the early stages. In fact, many pituitary tumors go undiagnosed for many years. Blood tests used to diagnose pituitary tumors can be complex, and they require special expertise. Our specialized endocrinologists and neurosurgeons are among the most skilled and experienced in diagnosing pituitary tumors.

If you have symptoms that may 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 be used to find out if you have a pituitary tumor and how large it is. These tests also may be used to find out if treatment is working.

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• Saliva tests
• Specialized testing that requires frequent sampling of the blood, saliva and/or urine
• Imaging tests, which may include:
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans
  • CT or CAT (computed axial tomography) scans