Galactorrhea associated with lymphocytic adenohypophysitis. Case report

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pathology

Background:

• Lymphocytic adenohypophysitis is a rare inflammatory condition affecting the pituitary gland.
• It is often associated with hypopituitarism and typically diagnosed post-mortem.

Observation:

• A postpartum woman presented with galactorrhea (milk discharge) and mistakenly believed she was pregnant, leading to suicide.
• Autopsy revealed a non-gravid uterus and an enlarged pituitary gland.

Findings:

• Histological examination identified lymphocytic adenohypophysitis.
• Immunoperoxidase studies showed prolactin cell hyperplasia.
• No other causes for galactorrhea were identified.

Implications:

• This case suggests lymphocytic adenohypophysitis may be a previously unrecognized cause of galactorrhea.
• Early diagnosis and treatment could potentially prevent severe outcomes.
• Further research is needed to understand the full spectrum of this condition.