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Updated: May 14, 2026
08:46
A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis
Published on: August 12, 2020
Hypopituitarism occurring in neonatal sepsis
Ljiljana Saranac1, Bojko Bjelakovic, Daniela Djordjevic
1Department of Endocrinology, University of Nis, Serbia. endoljilja@yahoo.com
Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism : JPEM
|February 22, 2013
Summary
A newborn developed acquired hypopituitarism due to Salmonella sepsis and dopamine treatment. This first-time report highlights the need for pituitary function monitoring in septic neonates receiving dopamine.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Acquired hypopituitarism is rare in neonates.
- Salmonella enteritidis sepsis can have severe systemic effects.
- Prolonged dopamine use is common in critically ill neonates.
Observation:
- A female neonate presented with Salmonella enteritidis sepsis and cystic encephalomalacia.
- The neonate received prolonged dopamine administration.
- Severe hyponatremia was observed, prompting further investigation.
Findings:
- Hormonal evaluation confirmed acquired hypopituitarism.
- This case represents the first documented instance of infectious hypophysitis in a neonate.
- The pituitary dysfunction was linked to the sepsis and dopamine treatment.
Implications:
- Infectious hypophysitis should be considered in neonates with sepsis and neurological complications.
- Close monitoring of pituitary function is crucial for septic neonates on prolonged dopamine therapy.
- Early diagnosis and management of hypopituitarism can prevent severe complications in neonates.
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