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Published on: January 17, 2018
Empty sella may be the final outcome in lymphocytic hypophysitis.
Zuleyha Karaca1, Fatih Tanriverdi, Kursad Unluhizarci
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
Endocrine Research
|June 27, 2009
Summary
Lymphocytic hypophysitis (LH), an autoimmune pituitary disorder, can lead to hypopituitarism. This case highlights its 13-year progression, culminating in an empty sella.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Radiology
Background:
- Lymphocytic hypophysitis (LH) is a rare autoimmune condition affecting the pituitary gland.
- It frequently impacts females, often during pregnancy or postpartum, causing hypopituitarism.
Observation:
- A case of LH initially presented with diabetes insipidus and hyperprolactinemia.
- Over time, the patient developed deficiencies in growth hormone, gonadotropins, and thyroid-stimulating hormone.
- Pituitary MRI revealed increased stalk thickness and diffuse enhancement, progressing to an empty sella.
Findings:
- The study documents the natural 13-year course of lymphocytic hypophysitis.
- The characteristic radiological findings evolved, leading to the development of an empty sella.
Implications:
- Understanding the natural history of LH is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- This case underscores the importance of long-term pituitary monitoring in patients with LH.
- The progression to an empty sella represents a significant anatomical change in the pituitary gland.
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