PITUITARY GLAND, UNDERACTIVE

(Hypopituitarism)

 Basic information

description

• An underactive pituitary fails to release enough of one or more of its hormones. The pituitary is a small, dime-sized gland located just below the brain. It works with the hypothalamus in the brain to regulate body functions. Hormones released by the pituitary are used in many of these functions. If all hormones are absent, it is called panhypopituitarism. Hormones include:
  • Growth hormone—for growth of tissue and bones.
  • Prolactin hormone—for female breast development and milk production.
  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone—used by the thyroid gland for metabolism functions.
  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone—used by the adrenal gland to control blood pressure.
  • Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormones—control sexual function in males and females.
  • Antidiuretic hormone—affects the kidneys in the production of urine.
  • Oxytocin—for contractions of the uterus during childbirth and the release of milk during breast-feeding.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Decrease in appetite and weight loss.
• Unusual tiredness or fatigue.
• Abdominal pain; nausea.
• More sensitive to cold or heat.
• Persistent headaches.
• Mental changes.
• Changes in vision.
• Women may have menstrual period changes, failure to produce milk, hot flashes, and infertility.
• Men may have decreased sexual interest.
• Severe thirst and lack of urination.
• Failure of growth (seen after age 6 months).
• Lack of secondary sexual features that develop in puberty. These include voice changes, breast development, and growth of pubic hair.

causes

Usually caused by disorders that affect the pituitary, the hypothalamus, or surrounding structures. Sometimes the cause is unknown.

risk increases with

• Tumors.
• Head injury.
• Infection (tuberculosis, syphilis, or meningitis).
• Blocked blood supply to the pituitary.
• Immune system problem.
• Pregnancy and delivery.
• Radiation or surgery.
• Congenital defect (a problem present since birth).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

None specific. Obtain medical care for any risk factors.

expected outcomes

It is usually a lifelong disorder. Outcome is generally favorable if an underlying disorder is successfully treated and hormone-replacement therapy is continued.

possible complications

Hormonal failure and possible death without treatment. Other complications depend on the underlying cause.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may include blood studies of hormone levels and hormone function. CT or MRI scans may be done.
• Treatment is aimed at treating the cause of the pituitary failure (which may include drugs or surgery) and hormone replacement as needed.
• Surgery to remove underlying tumors or blood clots, if needed.
• Wear a medical alert type bracelet or neck pendant indicating your hormone deficiencies and their proper treatment.
• To learn more: Pituitary Network Association, PO Box 1958, Thousand Oaks, CA 91358; (805) 499-9973 (not toll-free); website: www.pituitary.org.

medications

• Hormones are usually prescribed to replace those the pituitary is not producing.
• Drugs may be prescribed for treatment of an underlying disorder.

activity

Stay as active as your condition allows.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of an underactive pituitary gland.
• Symptoms occur with treatment that cause concern.

Special Notes: