Hypopituitarism

Hypopituitarism is a rare disorder characterized by the underproduction of hormones by the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland, often referred to as the “master gland,” is responsible for controlling various endocrine glands in the body. It produces a range of hormones that influence growth, reproductive functions, and metabolism.

Symptoms

In hypopituitarism, one or more of these hormones are deficient, which can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on which hormones are affected. These include growth, blood pressure and the ability to have children, among others. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, weight loss or gain, sensitivity to cold, and decreased libido. The condition can be caused by various factors, including pituitary tumors, head injuries, infections, and autoimmune conditions.

Growth hormone (GH) deficiency can cause growth problems and short stature in children, while most adults may experience lethargy, depression and reduced quality of life. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) deficiency affect the reproductive system, causing infertility and affecting puberty. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) deficiency leads to hypothyroidism, causing tiredness, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, and cold sensitivity. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) deficiency causes severe tiredness, low blood pressure, infections, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion. Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) deficiency can lead to diabetes insipidus, causing extreme thirst and excessive urination. Prolactin deficiency affects the body's ability to produce breast milk, causing issues with breastfeeding.

What are the different types of hypopituitarism?

Hypopituitarism can be classified into three types based on the amount of deficient hormones:

  • Isolated pituitary deficiency: A single pituitary hormone is deficient
  • Multiple pituitary hormone deficiency: It occurs when two or more pituitary hormones are impaired and not produced
  • Panhypopituitarism: All pituitary hormones are deficient

Based on the cause of hypopituitarism and how the pituitary gland and its hormones are affected, hypopituitarism is classified into three types

  • Primary hypopituitarism: It is caused by injury or abnormalities of the pituitary gland
  • Secondary hypopituitarism: It is caused by injury or abnormalities of the hypothalamus
  • Idiopathic hypopituitarism: The cause is unknown

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure hormone levels, imaging tests like MRI to visualize the pituitary gland, and sometimes stimulation tests to assess gland function.

Treatment

The treatment for hypopituitarism is determined by which pituitary hormone(s) are lacking and is highly tailored to individual needs. Common treatments for hypopituitarism include: Hormone Replacement Therapy: Hormone replacement treatment attempts to return the pituitary hormone(s) to normal levels. Surgery: Patients with pituitary adenomas may require surgery to remove the adenoma. Radiation therapy: Some pituitary adenomas can be treated with radiation.