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Pituitary conditions: importance of geography and the Pituitary Foundation in patient support

02 September 2019
Long-Term Conditions
02 September 2019
Volume 24 · Issue 9

Abstract

Quality of life is significantly impacted for those with pituitary conditions, and patients need support to meet ongoing physical and psychological needs. This study aimed to explore the support needs and experiences of patients with pituitary conditions in the community. Ten self-selected members of the Pituitary Foundation were interviewed about their conditions, needs and experiences. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Secondary thematic analysis was conducted on data from a sample of 748 members of the Pituitary Foundation. Four themes were revealed, under one over-arching theme of geography: (1) life-changing diagnosis, (2) the Foundation as a source of support, (3) access to the Foundation and (4) attendance at support groups. On the basis of the findings of this study, the authors concluded that better training is required for health professionals about pituitary conditions, their long-term consequences and the need to signpost patients to wider services offering essential support.

The pituitary gland is extremely important for regulating the functioning of the hormones within the body, and it is particularly vulnerable to the development of benign non-cancerous tumours called adenomas. These tumours are the main cause of problems associated with the pituitary gland. These growths can lead to an over- or under-production of various hormones throughout the body. Research has estimated that there are between 50 000 and 70 000 patients with pituitary problems in the UK, equating to 0.08–0.11% of the population (Pituitary Foundation, 2016). By far, the most common type of tumour (about half of all cases) is the ‘non-functioning’ tumour. Despite not producing any hormones itself, it can cause headaches and visual problems or can press on the pituitary gland, causing it to stop producing the required amount of one or more of the pituitary hormones. This effect can also be produced in response to treatment for pituitary tumours, such as surgery or radiotherapy.

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Pituitary conditions
Patient support
Psychosocial impact
Quality of life
Geography