Endocrine

Hypopituitarism

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Pathology

Reduction in some or all of the pituitary hormones.

Aetiology

Congenital
Malignancy: Non-functioning adenoma 
Vascular: Haemorrhage or infarction
Infection: TB and Syphilis
Inflammation
Post-irradiation
Traumatic brain injury

Signs

See specific hormone deficiencies e.g. hypothyroidism, hypogonadism

Symptoms

See specific hormone deficiencies e.g. hypothyroidism, hypogonadism

Investigations

Bloods: Pituitary profile.
Imaging: MRI pituitary
Special Tests: Humphrey’s field test, short synacthen test, insulin tolerance test

Treatment

Medical: Replacement of secondary hormones (e.g. thyroid, adrenal or gonadal). 
Growth hormone replacement until full growth potential
Surgical: Trans-sphenoidal surgery 

Prognosis

Normal life expectancy following adequate treatment
Poor quality of life, sub-fertility, increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, osteoporosis

Key Facts

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Key Images

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Key References

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