Diagnosis and Management of Idiopathic Hypothalamic Dysfunction: A Case Series and Systematic Review

Idiopathic hypothalamic dysfunction (IHD) is a rare syndrome with heterogeneous clinical symptoms. This study aimed to systematically review the clinical features and potential treatment of IHD based on our case series and literature.

We analysed six recently diagnosed cases of IHD in Peking Union Medical College Hospital and conducted a systematic review of IHD case studies published before August 25, 2021, using the PubMed/Medline database. All 12 articles that met the definition of IHD and provided individual clinical data were reviewed.

Of the 19 cases reviewed (13 from the literature and 6 from our centre), the median age at onset was 6 years. Obesity/weight gain (n = 14, 73.7%) and electrolyte abnormalities (n = 14, 73.7%) were the most common hypothalamic physiological dysfunction, followed by autonomic dysregulation (n = 13, 68.4%) and adipsia (n = 13, 68.4%). The most common initial symptom of young patients was obesity/weight gain, whereas the initial symptoms of the three adult patients were hypothalamic amenorrhoea, delayed sexual development, and polydipsia. 11 (57.9%) patients had obesity, and three of our patients were diagnosed with metabolic syndrome in late adolescence or early adulthood. Three of our cases diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency received growth hormone therapy, which exerted positive effects on growth promotion and weight stabilization.

Although obesity/weight gain was the most common symptom of IHD, uncommon initial symptoms such as electrolyte abnormalities and sexual disorders also require attention, especially in patients with late childhood- or adult-onset IHD. Consistent monitoring of metabolic profiles is recommended. Positive effects of growth hormone replacement therapy on growth and weight were observed, but more extensive cohort studies are required to confirm its efficacy and safety.