5 mm microadenoma

  I am a 32 year old white female.  I have had several problems continue since I was pregnant with my son (7 years ago).  After going from physician to physician and finding no answers, last year I went to an endocrynologist that diagnosed me with hypothyroidism (secondary).  I was placed on synthyroid for approximately 9 months in increasing dosages.  I gained 40 pounds while on the medication and felt worse.  I finally got a second opinion and the physician said I was not low in thyroid enough to merit medication.  I am off of it now, 40 pounds heavier.  However, my dominating symptom is pitting edema.  I am miserable and want to understand what I should do.  I did have an MRI which suggested a 5 mm microadenoma located within the posterior inferior aspect of the gland.
  The two endocrinolgists that I have seen do not believe that this is the problem.  I do have breast lactations, but the prolactin levels are normal.  Can this microadenoma be the problem?  Please respond as soon as possible.  
    
Dear Ms. Chaffins:
It is difficult to give you a very accurate answer because we do not know
all the details of these problems you mention.
Certainly there are other non endocrinologic reasons for having pitting
edema, but these would also need to be worked-up appropriately.
Microadenomas are not always prolactin secreting and they could have other
endocrinologic functions/properties. Given the conflicting advice that you
received, I think you should seek the advice of an endocrinologist who
specializes in pituitary disorders as he/she will be better suited to
sort this out.
If you have any other questions please write back!