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Published on: January 17, 2018
High altitude-induced pituitary apoplexy
Kiraninder Singh Brar1, Mahendra Kumar Garg
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Army Hospital-Research & Referral, New Delhi 110010, India. ksbrar32@hotmail.com
Singapore Medical Journal
|June 20, 2012
Summary
High altitude exposure can trigger rare pituitary apoplexy, even with gradual ascent and acclimatization. This case highlights a young man
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Altitude Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- High altitude ascent (beyond 2,438 m) poses risks like acute mountain sickness and edema.
- Pituitary apoplexy is a rare but serious condition involving pituitary gland hemorrhage.
Observation:
- A young man, after gradual high altitude acclimatization, presented with headache, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an enlarged pituitary gland with hemorrhage.
Findings:
- Hormonal assessment indicated acute adrenal insufficiency due to corticotropin deficiency.
- The patient's condition improved with conservative medical management and hormonal replacement therapy.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of high altitude-induced pituitary apoplexy.
- Highlights the potential for altitude exposure to precipitate unusual endocrine emergencies.
- Suggests the need for vigilance regarding pituitary function in individuals experiencing symptoms after high altitude exposure.
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