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Updated: Feb 27, 2026

Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
[Pituitary hyperplasia due to primary hypothyroidism].
M Ammar1, F HadjKacem1, A Maalej2
1Service d'endocrinologie et diabétologie, hôpital Hedi-Chaker, avenue Majida-Boulila, 3029 Sfax, Tunisie.
Pituitary hyperplasia, a rare condition caused by primary hypothyroidism, can be mistaken for a pituitary mass. Prompt diagnosis and thyroid hormone replacement therapy can resolve the hyperplasia and associated hyperprolactinemia.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Primary hypothyroidism is a rare cause of pituitary hyperplasia.
- This condition is often underdiagnosed, leading to misdiagnosis as a pituitary mass.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old patient presented with a pituitary mass, later diagnosed as primary hypothyroidism.
- Biological tests confirmed severe primary hypothyroidism and hyperprolactinemia.
Findings:
- Treatment with l-thyroxine supplementation normalized thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and prolactin levels.
- The pituitary mass resolved following thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Implications:
- Recognizing pituitary hyperplasia in primary hypothyroidism is crucial.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent unnecessary surgeries and potential irreversible complications.
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