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Delayed puberty associated with hyperprolactinemia caused by pituitary microadenoma
Y Kawano1, S Kamihigashi, S Nakamura
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oita Medical University, Hasama-machi, Japan.
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
|October 25, 2000
Summary
Hyperprolactinemia, a rare cause of primary amenorrhea, can halt puberty. This case report highlights successful bromocriptine treatment for a 16-year-old patient with a pituitary microadenoma, inducing ovulation and menarche.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Pediatric Endocrinology
Background:
- Primary amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation by age 15.
- Hyperprolactinemia, elevated prolactin levels, can disrupt reproductive function.
- Pituitary microadenomas are small tumors of the pituitary gland.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old female presented with delayed puberty and primary amenorrhea.
- Elevated prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) were detected.
- A pituitary microadenoma was identified as the cause.
Findings:
- The patient experienced pubertal development (thelarche and pubarche) but arrested before menarche.
- Hyperprolactinemia was the sole identified cause of her delayed puberty.
- Bromocriptine therapy effectively induced ovulation and menstruation.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates that hyperprolactinemia, even without galactorrhea, can cause primary amenorrhea.
- Bromocriptine is an effective treatment for inducing puberty and menarche in such cases.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of hyperprolactinemia are crucial for restoring reproductive function.