PCOS or Pituitary tumor?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I went to see my doctor several months ago as I had not had a period in almost a year (I still haven't had one now). I was given 3 different blood tests plus an ultrasound scan to rule out the more typical causes (including PCOS) and eventually referred to the hospital. In between doctor appointments I did some research of my own to try and figure out what was going on and eventually came across something called a Pituitary Tumour. I have almost every symptom associated with this including: Frequent headaches, Lethargy, visual changes, mood swings, loss of periods etc. I have also been suffering from stiffness in my neck. Yesterday I went to my hospital referral. I wasn't even given any tests. The doctor ruled out my concerns without even a discussion and said 'I don't know why your doctor has referred you to the hospital, you have PCOS, it's right here in your blood work, it must have been missed.' She then told me to try losing a stone (ouch) and that was the end of it. She prescribed me The Pill to try and balance out my hormones and regulate my periods but I'm really concerned that she could be wrong and that (taking into account my other symptoms too) this could be a Pituitary Tumour. I'm worried about going back to the doctor in case they think I'm over reacting or trying to get attention. Am I right to be concerned? What should I do?

The pituitary gland is also called the master gland because it regulates all the other hormones of the body. Pituitary tumor is a rare condition. Symptoms may vary, depending on the kind of hormone excessively produced by the tumor. In your case, I would still say that you have PCOS since the bloodwork has proven it. I would presume that your primary physician also did complete blood tests of all hormones. This will help aid in the diagnosis. It is true that patients with pituitary tumor have headaches and visual disturbances but the more telling sign is galactorrhea (expressing milk from breasts) in non-pregnant women. You may ask your doctor regarding the hormone levels of your blood tests (which ones are normal, high and low). It is your right to know the details of your condition. I do hope I have appeased your concerns. Take care always.