The Pituitary

The pituitary, albeit a small gland, is known as the "master gland" of the endocrine system and contributes to a wide spectrum of disorders, diseases, and syndromes. Since the publication of the second edition of The Pituitary, in 2002, there have been major advances in the molecular biology research of pituitary hormone production and action and there is now a better understanding of the pathogenesis of pituitary tumors and clinical syndromes resulting in perturbation of pituitary function. There have also been major advances in the clinical management of pituitary disorders. Medical researchers and practitioners now better understand the morbidity and mortality associated with pituitary hormone hyposecretion and hypersecretion. Newly developed drugs, and improved methods of delivering established drugs, are allowing better medical management of acromegaly and prolactinoma. These developments have improved the worldwide consensus around the definition of a "cure" for pituitary disease, especially hormone hypersecretion, and hence will improve the success or lack of success of various forms of therapy. It is therefore time for a new edition of The Pituitary. The third edition will continue to be divided into sections that summarize normal hypothalamic-pituitary development and function, hypothalamic-pituitary failure, and pituitary tumors; additional sections will describe pituitary disease in systemic disorders and diagnostic procedures, including imaging, assessment of the eyes, and biochemical testing. The first chapter will be completely new – placing a much greater emphasis on physiology and pathogenesis. Two new chapters will be added on the Radiation and Non-surgical Management of the Pituitary and Other Pituitary Lesions. Other chapters will be completely updated and many new author teams will be invited. The second edition published in 2002 and there have been incredible changes in both the research and clinical aspects of the pituitary over the past 8 years – from new advances in growth hormones to pituitary tumor therapy. Presents a comprehensive, translational source of information about the pituitary in one reference work Pituitary experts (from all areas of research and practice) take readers from the bench research (cellular and molecular mechanism), through genomic and proteomic analysis, all the way to clinical analysis (histopathology and imaging) and new therapeutic approaches Clear presentation by endocrine researchers of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying pituitary hormones and growth factors as well as new techniques used in detecting lesions (within the organ) and other systemic disorders Clear presentation by endocrinologists and neuroendocrine surgeons of how imaging, assessment of the eyes, and biochemical testing can lead to new therapeutic approaches

This clinically oriented book will familiarize the reader with all aspects of the diagnosis of tumors and other disorders of the pituitary gland by means of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The coverage includes acromegaly, Cushing’s disease, Rathke cleft cysts, prolactinomas, incidentalomas, nonsecreting adenomas, other lesions of the sellar area, hypophysitis, and central diabetes insipidus. Normal radiologic anatomy and the numerous normal variants are described, and guidance is also provided on difficulties, artifacts, and other pitfalls. The book combines concise text and high-quality images with a question and answer format geared toward the needs of the practitioner. MRI is today considered the cornerstone in the diagnosis of diseases of the hypophyseal-hypothalamic region but the relatively small size of the pituitary gland, its deep location, the many normal anatomic variants, and the often tiny size of lesions can hinder precise evaluation of the anatomic structures and particularly the pituitary gland itself. Radiologists and endocrinologists will find MRI of the Pituitary Gland to be full of helpful information on this essential examination, and the book will also be of interest to internists and neurosurgeons.

The pituitary gland is an important one since it controls several of the other hormone glands, such as the thyroid and adrenals. A pituitary adenoma is an abnormal growth or tumor in this gland, and they are the subject of very active clinical and pathological research. This book examines the latest developments in this field and discusses the most important molecules implicated in apoptosis, angiogenesis and signal transduction. A good understanding of these processes is needed to identify the best therapies. Facilitates the understanding of the processes involved and how they are translated into therapy Illustrations are used to explain the complex mechanisms involved

Do you want to be up to date on the latest concepts ofdiagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from disorders of thepituitary gland? Are you looking for an expert guide to the best clinicalmanagement? If so, this is the book for you, providing a full analysis ofpituitary disorder management from acromegaly to Addison’sDisease; from Cushing’s Disease to hypopituitarism; fromhormone disorders to hormone replacement Well-illustrated throughout and with contributions from leadingspecialists in pituitary disease, inside you’ll findcomprehensive and expert coverage, including: Diagnosing pituitary disease Management options for each disorder Complications that can occur Psychological and psychosocial effects of pituitarydisease What outcomes you and your patients can expect over thelong term Current research and clinical trials related to pituitarydisease Pituitary Disorders: Diagnosis and Management is theperfect clinical tool for physicians and health care providers frommany related disciplines, and an essential companion for the bestquality management of pituitary patients.

MRI Atlas of Pituitary Imaging focuses on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the imaging modality of choice for the evaluation of pituitary disorders, since it provides a detailed anatomy of the pituitary gland and surrounding structures, particularly the soft tissues. A basic understanding and interpretation of MRI is important for many clinicians outside of the field of radiology, especially endocrinologists who may receive limited formal training in such areas. This concise Atlas includes a brief review of the principles of magnetic resonance imaging and then reinforces these principles by utilizing a case-based approach to review various pituitary pathologies. The Atlas serves as a strong clinical teaching aid for endocrinologists, radiologists, and neurosurgeons in training. It also serves as a great reference for physicians who are currently in practice. Provides readers with a simple, visual approach for the evaluation of pituitary images Features 160 high-resolution images of the most common to the rarest of disorders affecting the pituitary Serves an audience of fellows, residents, and clinicians in endocrinology, radiology, neurosurgery, and anyone involved in the multidisciplinary diagnosis of pituitary disease

Pituitary Tumors: A Comprehensive and Interdisciplinary Approach provides the latest information on preclinical issues, diagnostic procedures, treatment options and post-treatment care for patients with pituitary tumors. The book includes basic and advanced knowledge for a broad audience, including physicians, endocrinologists, neurosurgeons, neuro-radiologists, neuro-ophthalmologists, neuro-pathologists, oncologists, radiotherapists and researchers who are investigating pituitary tumors. Readers will find the latest research surrounding progress on uncoding the molecular mechanisms involved in tumor genesis. In addition, standard treatment modalities, including surgery, medical treatment and radiosurgery are explored. Provides state-of-the-art knowledge from experts who cover all specialties involved in the field of pituitary tumors Offers a comprehensive presentation of related issues to pituitary tumors Delivers a complete reference book for a broad audience, providing both basic and advanced knowledge

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This text is a review of current management techniques for pituitary tumors, incorporating recent advances and discussions by experienced clinicians. The use of both endocrinologists and neurosurgeons as chapter authors allows differing perspectives to be incorporated. The book is organized around individual tumor types, with additional chapter topics added for those subjects requiring special emphasis. Appropriate photographs and illustrations are incorporated as warranted.