Pineal Gland 송과선(송과체)

CONDITIONS AND DISORDERS

What conditions and disorders affect the pineal gland?

Your pineal gland’s function and ability to release melatonin can be affected by the following conditions and situations:

• Pineal gland tumors.
• Injuries that affect the pineal gland.
• Pineal gland calcification.

Pineal gland tumors

Pineal gland tumors are very rare, and there are several different types of them. They’re more likely to affect children and adults younger than 40.

Pineal tumors aren’t always cancer, but they still cause problems as they grow because they press against other parts of your brain. They can also block the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which is the fluid that surrounds and cushions your brain. This blockage raises the pressure inside your skull, which is dangerous and requires treatment.

Injuries that affect the pineal gland

Damage to your pineal gland can cause it to work improperly. Approximately 30% to 50% of people who experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) have issues with at least one endocrine gland in their brain, which includes the pineal gland and pituitary gland.

A traumatic brain injury can happen when there is a blow to the head. The injury can be penetrating, like a gunshot wound, or a non-penetrating injury, like being struck in the head during a car accident. Concussions are the most common type of TBI.

Pineal gland calcification

Calcification of the pineal gland is quite common. In fact, it’s so common that healthcare providers often use a calcified pineal gland as a landmark on x-rays to help identify different structures of the brain. Calcification happens when calcium builds up in body tissue, causing the tissue to harden.

Your pineal gland tends to calcify as you age. While some calcification is normal, excessive calcification can prevent your pineal gland from functioning properly. Some studies have revealed that the degree of calcification of the pineal gland is higher in those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. There’s a loose link between pineal gland calcification and some migraine and cluster headaches.

More studies need to be done to determine the exact effects of pineal gland calcification.

What are the symptoms of pineal gland problems?

If you have a pineal gland tumor, which are rare, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Seizures.
• Memory issues.
• Headaches.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Vision changes.

What are common tests to check the health of the pineal gland?

Healthcare providers can look at your pineal gland with imaging tests, such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a CT (computed tomography) scan. Providers use these imaging tests to help determine if you have a pineal tumor or cyst.

Providers may also use X-rays to check for pineal gland calcification.

Your provider can also check your melatonin levels with a blood test.

How are pineal gland conditions treated?

Pineal gland tumors may be treated with one or more of the following therapies:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of a pineal tumor is difficult due to its location in the middle of your brain. Because of this, it’s not a common treatment. In some cases, a surgeon might remove the entire pineal gland (pinealectomy).
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy focuses strong beams of energy to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from growing.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from growing.

If you have a condition that causes your pineal gland to secrete less-than-normal levels of melatonin, your provider may have you take an over-the-counter melatonin supplement.