[Hypothalamic endocrinopathy in histiocytosis X (author's transl)]

Histiocytosis X in a 2-year-old boy with mainly skull manifestations was treated with radiotherapy and cytostatic drugs. Diabetes insipidus and growth retardation followed. Secretory capacity of GH was variable, periods of normal and insufficient secretion alternating during the 15-year observation period; there was a satisfactory response to GH therapy for one year. Thyrotropin and ACTH deficiency were diagnosed 3 1/2, and again 9 years after termination of histiocytosis therapy. Since there was no relapse of histiocytosis, this hypothalamic endocrinopathy is interpreted as being a late sequela of radiotherapy.