Hypothalamic-Pituitary Dysfunctions Other Than Growth Hormone Deficiency in Cancer Survivors

Hypothalamic-pituitary (HP) dysfunctions are commonly reported complications in survivors of childhood cancer. These include growth hormone deficiency, luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone deficiency, thyroid-stimulating hormone deficiency, adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency, central precocious puberty, hyperprolactinemia, and central diabetes insipidus. Local tumor invasion and surgical or radiation-induced injury represent the highest risk factors. New treatment modalities, such as immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy have the potential to cause autoimmune hypophysitis. Untreated HP dysfunctions are associated with adverse physical and psychosocial consequences and reduced quality of life. Systematic and periodic endocrine assessments optimize early diagnosis and timely treatment and may improve long-term health outcomes.