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Comprehensive Evaluation of Hypopituitarism

Insufficient production of one or more hormones by the pituitary gland.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Comprehensive Evaluation of Hypopituitarism?

Hypopituitarism is the insufficient production of one (isolated) or more (panhypopituitarism) hormones by the anterior pituitary. The most common causes are pituitary adenomas, surgery, radiotherapy, Sheehan syndrome, craniopharyngioma, and hypophysitis.

Hormone deficiencies usually appear in the order GH > LH/FSH > TSH > ACTH. Each deficiency produces a different clinical picture: GH deficiency (fatigue, body composition changes), gonadotropin deficiency (amenorrhea, infertility), TSH deficiency (hypothyroidism), ACTH deficiency (adrenal insufficiency).

ACTH deficiency can be life-threatening; adrenal crisis may develop in stressful conditions. Treatment consists of physiologic replacement of the deficient hormones; the order of replacement matters (cortisol replacement should be started before thyroxine replacement).

Symptoms

Fatigue and weakness
Amenorrhea or loss of libido
Cold intolerance and weight gain (TSH deficiency)
Hypoglycemia and hypotension (ACTH deficiency)
Growth retardation (GH deficiency in children)
Inability to lactate (in Sheehan syndrome)

Risk Factors

Pituitary adenoma or pituitary surgery
Cranial radiotherapy
Traumatic brain injury
Sheehan syndrome (postpartum hemorrhage)
Autoimmune hypophysitis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If amenorrhea, fatigue, and cold sensitivity coexist
  • If hormone follow-up is required after pituitary surgery or radiotherapy
  • If breastfeeding is impossible and menstruation has not returned after delivery
  • If signs of adrenal crisis develop under stress

Treatment Methods

01
Hydrocortisone replacement (in ACTH deficiency — first priority)
02
Levothyroxine replacement (in TSH deficiency)
03
Sex steroids (estrogen/progesterone or testosterone)
04
Growth hormone replacement (in suitable cases)
05
Desmopressin (if diabetes insipidus is also present)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.