The pituitary gland, also known medically as the hypophysis, is one of the most important hormone producers in our body. The gland is located inside the skull and controls numerous vital processes in the body from there. The pituitary gland controls the thyroid gland, sexual organs, growth, fluid balance and the function of the adrenal glands. For example, constant thirst can indicate that the pituitary gland is malfunctioning (diabetes insipidus). If the pituitary gland secretes large amounts of growth hormones, acromegaly or gigantism may be the result. Overweight (obesity), infertility, muscle wasting or depression, poor performance and concentration or osteoporosis (bone loss) can also indicate a malfunction of the pituitary gland. The Mainz endocrinologist Prof Dr Christian Wüster treats malfunctions of the pituitary gland.
People who suffer from these and other complaints are increasingly researching causes and treatment options on the Internet. Or they go to their family doctor first. The first point of contact for patients who suspect they have a pituitary gland disorder is the endocrinologist. Prof. Dr. Christian Wüster, an endocrinologist in private practice in Mainz, has the experience and specialist knowledge to diagnose and treat pituitary gland disorders based on the latest scientific findings.
Prof. Dr. Christian Wüster carries out the complex tests in his own practice laboratory. A distinction is first made between benign and malignant (rare) diseases of the pituitary gland. A further distinction is made between diseases of the anterior pituitary gland and the posterior pituitary gland, which can be accompanied by a change in hormone production.
Whether radiotherapy, drug treatment or surgery: the treatment of a pituitary disease is individualised and depends in particular on the type of disease. Together with the patient, endocrinologist Prof Dr Christian Wüster plans and discusses the clinical picture and treatment options in detail. In the case of acromegaly, surgical removal of a tumour of the pituitary gland, which produces excess growth hormone, may be the treatment of choice or, more recently, primary treatment with medication. After surgery, radiotherapy or hormone treatment may be necessary. Prolactinoma, a benign tumour, on the other hand, usually responds very well to drug treatment. Diabetes insipidus is caused by a deficiency of the hormone ADH, which can be replaced with a nasal spray. If Cushing’s disease is diagnosed, surgical intervention is often advisable.
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