Hypopituitarism

What do you mean by Hypopituitarism?

Hypopituitary refers to a condition in which pituitary gland doesn’t produce one or more of its eight hormones resulting in deficiency of pituitary hormones. This greatly affects the development of various body parts.

When there is low or no production at all of all the pituitary hormones, it is known as panhypopituitarism.

What causes Hypopituitarism?

Hypopituitary can occur due to a number of reasons:

• Tumor
• Radiation
• Surgery
• Infections like meningitis

What are the symptoms of Hypopituitarism?

The various symptoms of Hypopituitary include:

• ACTH deficiency – Tiredness, low blood pressure, unexplained weight loss, depression, nausea and vomiting
• TSH deficiency – constipation, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, lack of energy, muscle pain or weakness
• FSH & LH deficiency – Irregular periods, infertility (in females) and loss of body/facial hair, decreased interest in sex, erectile dysfunction, infertility (in males)
• GH deficiency –short height, poor growth, fat around waist/face (in children) and low energy and muscle strength, lack of exercise tolerance, anxiety, depression (in adults)
• Prolactin deficiency – lack of milk production, fatigue, loss of pubic hair (in women) and no symptoms in men
• ADH deficiency – increased thirst and urination

How can Hypopituitarism be treated?

The treatment for Hypopituitary involves treating the underlying cause and may include:

• Medications
• Surgery to remove tumor