In general, the symptoms of pituitary tumors are related to problems in production of a specific hormone or group of hormones. The symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tumor and whether the tumor presses on other organs or affects the secretion of hormones. For instance, pituitary tumors may press on the optic nerve, causing problems with vision.
The symptoms of a pituitary tumor can range from mild fatigue to more severe symptoms, such as headaches, vomiting, or dizziness. Older children or adolescents with pituitary tumors may have problems with normal growth and development.
Sometimes pituitary tumors can cause the body to make too much hormone and other times too little. For example, tumors that make too much corticotrophin (ACTH) may cause a child to be overweight and lead to a condition called Cushing’s syndrome. Other tumors can slow sexual development and stunt growth. Depending on which hormones are affected, symptoms can vary.