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Pituitary function tests in black patients with pseudocyesis.
T Padayachi1, R Ashe, J Moodley
1Department of Chemical Pathology, University of Natal and King Edward VIII Hospital, Durban.
Summary
This study found abnormal pituitary hormone responses in patients with pseudocyesis, particularly impaired growth hormone secretion linked to oestrogen deficiency. These findings suggest specific pituitary aberrations in this condition.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- Pseudocyesis, or false pregnancy, is a rare condition with complex underlying mechanisms.
- Understanding pituitary function is crucial for diagnosing and managing endocrine disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate pituitary function in patients diagnosed with pseudocyesis.
- To investigate specific hormone responses to provocative stimuli in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Assessed basal hormone levels including prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and sex steroids.
- Administered gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to stimulate LH and FSH release.
- Evaluated growth hormone (GH) secretion using insulin-induced hypoglycemia and L-dopa stimulation tests.
Main Results:
- Most patients had normal basal pituitary hormone levels and axes, except for oestradiol deficiency in 6 and elevated progesterone in 2.
- Exaggerated LH and FSH responses to GnRH were observed in some patients.
- Impaired growth hormone secretion was noted in 6 patients, potentially linked to oestrogen deficiency.
Conclusions:
- Pseudocyesis is associated with specific, albeit sometimes subtle, aberrations in pituitary hormone secretion.
- Oestrogen deficiency appears to play a role in the observed impaired growth hormone response.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the neuroendocrine basis of pseudocyesis.