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Preparation of Mouse Pituitary Immunogen for the Induction of Experimental Autoimmune Hypophysitis
Published on: December 17, 2010
Autoimmune hypothyroidism presenting as pituitary hyperplasia
Rajendra Prasad Namburi1, Takkolu Sriram Karthik, Amaresh Reddy Ponnala
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Narayana Medical College and Superspeciality Hospital, Nellore, 524003, India.
Pituitary hyperplasia and hyperprolactinemia can rarely result from primary hypothyroidism. Treatment with thyroid hormone replacement therapy led to the regression of pituitary hyperplasia in a child.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Thyroid Disorders
Background:
- Primary hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones.
- Pituitary hyperplasia, an enlargement of the pituitary gland, is an uncommon manifestation of untreated primary hypothyroidism.
- Hyperprolactinemia, elevated levels of prolactin, can also be associated with pituitary dysfunction.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old child presented with symptoms including headaches, fatigue, coarse facial features, and hoarseness.
- Brain imaging revealed pituitary hyperplasia.
- Hormonal tests indicated primary hypothyroidism and hyperprolactinemia.
Findings:
- The patient's pituitary hyperplasia was found to be secondary to primary hypothyroidism.
- Thyroid hormone replacement therapy was initiated.
Implications:
- This case highlights an unusual presentation of primary hypothyroidism.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of primary hypothyroidism are crucial to prevent or reverse pituitary abnormalities.
- Understanding this association can aid in the diagnosis of pituitary hyperplasia in children with unexplained symptoms.
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