Obesity associated insulin resistance occurs in hypopituitary subjects

The study aimed to assess the role of pituitary hormones in the relationship between insulin resistance and obesity. Twelve male subjects with hypopituitarism secondary to surgery for a non-functioning pituitary adenoma were recruited. Subjects were receiving replacement hormones. Fasting plasma samples were taken for insulin, C-peptide, glucose, and lipids. Body mass index and blood pressure were measured. In hypopituitary subjects on replacement therapy, a positive association between body mass index and fasting plasma insulin levels (r = 0.76, p < 0.004) was similar to that found in normal subjects. In conclusion pituitary function does not have a direct role in determining the relationship between fasting plasma insulin, an index of insulin resistance, and obesity.