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Decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol in hypopituitarism
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|November 1, 1979
Summary
This study found that hypopituitarism significantly alters lipid profiles, decreasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Hormone replacement therapy improved HDL-C levels, suggesting pituitary hormones influence lipid metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Lipid Metabolism
- Pituitary Disorders
Background:
- Pituitary hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism.
- Alterations in lipid profiles are common in endocrine disorders.
- High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is a key indicator of cardiovascular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of hypopituitarism on serum lipid profiles, specifically triglyceride, total cholesterol, and HDL-C levels.
- To explore the relationship between pituitary hormone deficiency and dyslipidemia.
- To assess the effect of hormone replacement therapy on lipid parameters in patients with hypopituitarism.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, and HDL-C concentrations in patients with hypopituitarism.
- Comparison of lipid levels with control ranges.
- Evaluation of lipid profiles in patients with specific pituitary conditions like isolated GH deficiency, Kallman's syndrome, and active acromegaly.
- Assessment of changes in HDL-C following replacement therapy with thyroid hormone and prednisone.
Main Results:
- Patients with hypopituitarism exhibited significantly increased mean total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, though within control ranges.
- A significant decrease in mean HDL-C concentration and the HDL-C to total cholesterol ratio was observed.
- Similar lipid profile alterations were noted in a patient with isolated GH deficiency.
- Patients with Kallman's syndrome and active acromegaly showed lipid values near or below normal ranges.
- Replacement therapy with thyroid hormone and prednisone normalized HDL-C in four out of five patients.
Conclusions:
- Pituitary hormone deficiency, particularly hypopituitarism, is associated with unfavorable changes in serum lipid profiles, characterized by decreased HDL-C.
- Thyroid hormone and/or glucocorticoids may play a significant role in maintaining normal HDL-C concentrations.
- The distribution of plasma lipoprotein fractions appears to be influenced, directly or indirectly, by pituitary hormones.
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