Obstructive hydrocephalus as a cause of hypopituitarism

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Radiology

Background:

• Intracranial hypertension presents with various signs and symptoms.
• Hydrocephalus can lead to increased intracranial pressure.
• Pituitary tumors and extrasellar processes can cause endocrine dysfunction.

Observation:

• Two patients with intracranial hypertension and abnormal sella turcica are presented.
• Initial presentation mimicked pseudotumor cerebri.
• Surgical correction of hydrocephalus led to symptom resolution.

Findings:

• Skull roentgenograms revealed an abnormal sella turcica in both patients.
• Arteriography and Sella Imaging (SI) studies were essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Endocrine dysfunction, including hypopituitarism, can be associated with hydrocephalus.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnostic imaging is critical to avoid misdiagnosis of intracranial hypertension.
• Hydrocephalus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with signs of increased intracranial pressure and sellar abnormalities.
• Early recognition of endocrine dysfunction is important for managing patients with complex neurological conditions.