What is Hypopituitarism?
Hypopituitarism is a disorder in which the hormones produced by the pituitary gland- growth hormone, sex hormones, cortisol, thyroid, and anti-diuretic hormone, are not functioning properly. This can cause an imbalance or deficiency in important hormones in our bodies. With prolactin, another hormone produced by the pituitary, hypopituitarism actually causes an increase in the secretion of prolactin.
Note: Low levels of cortisol, or adrenal insufficiency, can be a medical emergency, especially during times of stress or illness. A medical alert bracelet should be worn and cortisol replacement therapy given immediately.
A non-cancerous tumour in the pituitary gland is called a pituitary adenoma. Hypopituitarism is often encountered as a result of surgical treatment to remove this non-cancerous tumour. Other causes can be the result of an injury to the pituitary gland from head trauma or from cranial radiation therapy.
Symptoms of Hypopituitarism:
- Low energy level
- Decreased physical activity
- Difficulty concentrating or loss of memory
- Moodiness or difficulty relating to others
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in sexual activity
Several tests need to be performed before a diagnosis of a Hypopituitarism is confirmed. A referral to a specialized pituitary clinic such as ours is needed.
Hypopituitarism is a disorder in which the hormones produced by the pituitary gland- growth hormone, sex hormones, cortisol, thyroid, and anti-diuretic hormone, are not functioning properly. This can cause an imbalance or deficiency in important hormones in our bodies. With prolactin, another hormone produced by the pituitary, hypopituitarism actually causes an increase in the secretion of prolactin.
Note: Low levels of cortisol, or adrenal insufficiency, can be a medical emergency, especially during times of stress or illness. A medical alert bracelet should be worn and cortisol replacement therapy given immediately.
A non-cancerous tumour in the pituitary gland is called a pituitary adenoma. Hypopituitarism is often encountered as a result of surgical treatment to remove this non-cancerous tumour. Other causes can be the result of an injury to the pituitary gland from head trauma or from cranial radiation therapy.
Symptoms of Hypopituitarism:
- Low energy level
- Decreased physical activity
- Difficulty concentrating or loss of memory
- Moodiness or difficulty relating to others
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in sexual activity
Several tests need to be performed before a diagnosis of a Hypopituitarism is confirmed. A referral to a specialized pituitary clinic such as ours is needed.