What is hypopituitarism?
A condition known as hypopituitarism occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce enough of a particular hormone. The hypothalamus is linked to the pituitary gland, which is situated beneath the brain. It is in charge of making several hormones, such as growth hormone (GH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Endocrinologists treat hypopituitarism.
Prognosis:
Treatment for this illness must be ongoing. However, if they are properly managing their condition, patients can lead normal lives.
Symptoms of hypopituitarism
In most cases, the symptoms develop gradually, hence they may not be noticed for a while. Moreover, the symptoms depend on which hormones are lacking. The most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue, loss of energy, muscle weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Dry skin
- Reduction in appetite with weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss or reduction in libido
How is hypopituitarism diagnosed?
A physical examination of the thyroid gland, sex organs, and eyes is part of the testing process for hypopituitarism in order to identify symptoms of the condition and indications of hormone deficiency. To ascertain the amount of hormones in the blood, blood tests might also be necessary. To ascertain whether specific hormones, primarily growth hormone or cortisol, are lacking, a stimulation test may occasionally be performed. Urine testing may also be performed because it may reveal an antidiuretic hormone deficiency.
What are the causes of hypopituitarism?
Some of the possible causes are as follows:
- Brain surgery or a brain tumour, in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.
- Cranial injury
- Infection or inflammation of the brain
- Radiotherapy to the brain
- Haemorrhage caused by an aneurysm
Can it be prevented?
This disease cannot be prevented. However, early diagnosis may help in managing it correctly and reducing the number of symptoms experienced.
Treatments for hypopituitarism
There are different types of treatment, including:
- Treatment of the cause : if the cause is a tumour, the treatment will consist of removing the tumour surgically, if this is possible. Removal may reduce certain symptoms.
- Hormonal treatment consists of replenishing the deficient hormones.
Medications for hypopituitarism
The following drugs may be prescribed for a hormone deficiency:
- Levothyroxine in the event of a TSH deficiency
- Hydrocortisone/cortisone, in the event of an adrenocortical deficiency (ACTH)
- If fertility is not desired, testosterone, oestradiol, and progesterone; if it is, GnRH injections
- GH, if it is demonstrated to be inadequate