Panhypopituitarism (pituitary gland malfunction)

Description A rare disorder tha...

Description

A rare disorder that results from decreased production of the hormones of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is a part of the brain that is located behind the nose and between the ears. The gland produces hormones that control almost every major function of the body. These hormones include growth hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, ACTH, antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. The main cause of panhypopituitarism is damage to the pituitary gland from trauma, cancer, infection, stroke, and blood loss during pregnancy.

Symptoms

Since the hormones are important to every major function of the body the symptoms are widespread and non-specific. Symptoms include: fatigue, headaches, nausea, constipation, weight loss, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, cold intolerance, heat intolerance, visual problems, loss of pubic hair, joint pain, hoarseness, facial swelling, increased thirst, increased urination, and fainting.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be done to measure the missing or low level of hormones. Imaging testing may be done to determine the cause of the pituitary damage.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), X-ray

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Pediatric Endocrinology

Treatment

Therapy consists of replacing the missing hormones. The medications used include: corticosteroids, thyroid hormone, sex hormones, growth hormone, DDAVP (desmopressin).