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[Pituitary apoplexy: analysis of endocrine function in 17 cases]
J M Fernández Real1, C M Villabona, E Montaña
1Servicio de Endocrinología, Hospital de Bellvitge-Prínceps d'Espanya, Barcelona.
Medicina Clinica
|April 13, 1991
Summary
Pituitary apoplexy (PA) almost always impairs hormone secretion, with growth hormone and LH deficiencies being most common. Surgery can reverse this endocrine dysfunction, and low prolactin indicates overall pituitary hypofunction.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
Background:
- Pituitary apoplexy (PA) is a recognized neurological syndrome.
- Limited research exists on post-PA pituitary hormone secretion.
- This study aimed to evaluate endocrine dysfunction following PA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the frequency and severity of endocrine dysfunction after pituitary apoplexy.
- To investigate the impact of surgery on pituitary hormone secretion post-PA.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated secretion of GH, pituitary-adrenal axis, TSH, prolactin, LH, and FSH in 17 PA patients.
- Hormone levels were tested after stimulation with insulin, TRH, and LHRH.
- Measurements were repeated 20-90 days post-surgery; ADH was also assessed.
Main Results:
- Growth hormone (GH) deficiency occurred in 84% of patients; LH deficiency in 78%.
- Two patients showed improved pituitary-adrenal function post-surgery.
- Nearly all patients had reduced secretion of at least two hormones; hypoprolactinemia indicated broader dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Pituitary hormone secretion is almost invariably impaired after pituitary apoplexy.
- Surgical intervention can reverse post-PA endocrine dysfunction.
- Hypoprolactinemia serves as a key indicator of pituitary hypofunction.