Fatigue, weakness, and sexual dysfunction after bariatic surgery - not an unusual case but an unusual cause

Malabsorptive bariatic surgery for morbid obesity has been very effective in producing weight loss. However, patients may experience some degree of malnutrition, which may lead to various clinical symptoms, such as fatigue and weakness. Morbid obesity is often associated with impaired reproductive function, and weight loss generally improves sexual function in both sexes. However, women with extreme weight loss may experience secondary amenorrhea. In men, zinc deficiency may lead to impaired testosterone synthesis resulting in hypogonadism and impotency.

A 43-year-old male 5 years after jejunoileal bypass for morbid obesity performed in a foreign institution presented with a recent history of progressive fatigue, general weakness, and declining libido and potency. Unexpectedly, his symptoms were not related to the operation or to his weight loss but rather to a structural cause. Endocrine and radiologic evaluations revealed a cystic tumor in the sella turcica causing partial hypopituitarism and secondary hypogonadism.

Long-term follow-up is mandatory in patients after bariatic surgery. Non-specific symptoms and findings should be further investigated. A loss of sexual activity and performance may have causes other than the previous bariatic operation.