DH (68) has a benign pituitary tumour (also known as a macroadenoma) Diagnosed 6 months ago, when an MRI showed it to be about an inch in size. He takes daily hydrocortisone and testosterone. Thyroid seems ok. Eyesight impacted but not to a life changing extent. Our understanding was that the tumour would be surgically removed (not that that would resolve the hormonal issues but at least would a. stop it growing, b. Relieve his eyesight issues and c. Involve surgery at 68 rather than 78 (eg) when it will be bigger)
Referred up to huge hospital, top neurosurgeon. He thinks there was a cyst on the tumour which may have healed since last MRI and therefore the overall mass may have shrunk a little so awaiting another MRI to see (this theory not borne out by eyesight test though). He thinks annual MRIs to check the tumour size might be the plan going forward. Obviously, avoiding a major op would be good and the neurosurgeon is the expert but anyone else I’ve heard/read about has had their tumour removed. Does anyone have the same situ, or have friends/family in the same situ? Life has changed a lot, and poor OH has gone v quickly from a fit and active “just retired” to a tired and anxious old man who’s lost his confidence.
Even if different health issues, can anyone with experience of a “suddenly ill” spouse or parent suggest ways I can help him cope? Thank you for reading.