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Pseudocyesis: pituitary function before and after resolution of symptoms
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1982
Summary
This study investigated pseudocyesis (false pregnancy) in a woman, finding abnormal pituitary hormone responses. These hormonal changes suggest a brain-based cause for the amenorrhea associated with pseudocyesis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Pseudocyesis, or false pregnancy, is a rare condition characterized by the belief of pregnancy with objective signs, but without a fetus.
- Assessing pituitary function is crucial for understanding hormonal imbalances in conditions like pseudocyesis.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old woman with clinically established pseudocyesis underwent pituitary function testing.
- Basal hormone levels were normal, but exaggerated luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin responses were observed after specific hypothalamic peptide and hormone administration.
- Paradoxical growth hormone (GH) release occurred with thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) administration.
Findings:
- The amenorrhea in pseudocyesis was linked to normal prolactin levels and a readily releasable pituitary LH pool.
- Abnormalities in GH secretion patterns were also noted.
- Pituitary hormone secretion remained largely unchanged after deflation, except for a normalized GH response to apomorphine.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a suprahypophyseal (originating above the pituitary gland) etiology for the amenorrhea observed in this case of pseudocyesis.
- Abnormal GH secretion patterns may further support a central nervous system origin for the condition's hormonal disturbances.