These tumours arise from the pituitary gland, an important gland at the base of the brain, behind the bridge of the nose.
They may present with visual problems, hormonal disturbance (weight loss or gain, hair loss or gain, lethargy, menstrual irregularities, milk secretion from the breasts, poor libido, infertility), or headaches.
They are usually benign, and many can be treated without surgery. Recurrent tumours may be treated with GammaKnife radiosurgery.