Pituitary disorders in pregnancy.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Neuroimaging

Background:

• The pituitary gland undergoes significant physiological changes during gestation, affecting its size and function.
• Endocrine evaluation and interpretation of pituitary imaging are more complex during pregnancy compared to the non-pregnant state.
• Pituitary disorders are uncommon in pregnancy, often linked to infertility due to associated gonadal dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review pituitary adenomas (prolactinomas, GH-secreting, ACTH-secreting) in pregnancy.
• To discuss diagnostic challenges and treatment recommendations for pituitary adenomas during gestation.
• To examine Sheehan's syndrome and lymphocytic hypophysitis, two pituitary disorders specific to pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on pituitary disorders during pregnancy.
• Analysis of diagnostic complexities in endocrine evaluation and imaging interpretation.
• Synthesis of current treatment recommendations for pituitary adenomas in pregnant patients.

Main Results:

• Pituitary adenomas, though rare, require careful management during pregnancy.
• Diagnostic hurdles include physiological adaptations and the rarity of these conditions.
• Specific management strategies are crucial for prolactinomas, GH-secreting, and ACTH-secreting adenomas.

Conclusions:

• Management of pituitary adenomas during pregnancy necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.
• Understanding pregnancy-induced pituitary changes is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Sheehan's syndrome and lymphocytic hypophysitis represent distinct challenges in obstetric endocrinology.