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Anterior pituitary function during early neonatal period
Archivos De Investigacion Medica
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Newborn infants show pituitary gland adjustments after birth, with increases in prolactin (PRL) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This response is likely triggered by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH).
Area of Science:
- Neonatal endocrinology
- Reproductive physiology
Background:
- Parturition triggers significant physiological changes in newborns.
- Understanding the neonatal pituitary gland's response is crucial for assessing infant health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anterior pituitary gland's responsiveness in normal newborn infants immediately following parturition.
- To measure specific pituitary hormone levels in neonates during the early postnatal period.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from 28 normal newborns at birth and over a four-hour interval.
- Serum levels of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Human Growth Hormone (HGH), Prolactin (PRL), and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) were measured.
Main Results:
- Neonatal pituitary response to parturition involves significant increments in Prolactin (PRL) and Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH).
- Hormonal changes were observed within the first four hours after birth.
Conclusions:
- The anterior pituitary gland exhibits dynamic changes in response to the birthing process.
- Increased PRL and TSH levels suggest a role for Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH) in mediating this neonatal pituitary response.