- August 16, 2016
- Posted by: emobile
- Category: Trending Topic
Emobileclinic Trending Topic
Hypopituitarism is a medical condition characterized with the non release of adequate hormones by the pituitary gland needed by the body. It is important to know that the brain houses the pituitary gland which releases about eight hormones. The functions of these hormones include stimulation of the growth of bones growth and aiding the release hormones by the thyroid gland that controls metabolism among others in the body.
Common hormones produced by the pituitary gland are:
Follicular stimulating hormoe (FSH): responsible for the growth of eggs female and sperm production in male Luteinizing hormone (LH): regulates fertility, puberty, and menstruation in female.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): enhances cortisol production and prompt the chemical reaction in the body to produce adrenaline
Aantidiuretic hormone (ADH): regulates blood pressure and retains fluids in the body
Growth hormone (GH): responsible for child’s growth, and sustains body structure and metabolism in adult.
Oxytocin: useful in the process of delivery and lactation
Causes
Primarily, a severe head injury may lead to this condition. Brain surgery, brain infection, brain, hypothalamus, pituitary tumors, chronic lung disease, stroke, tuberculosis, excessive blood loss during birth or accident, are all possible causes of hypopituitarism.
Symptoms
The symptoms are a function of the hormone that is not enough in the body. Generally, infertility, menstrual disorder, indigestion, growth retardation, erectile dysfunction are some of the symptoms. However, each condition presents specific symptom.
Diagnosis
It is usually done through blood test to check the levels of the hormones produced by the pituitary gland. Imaging tests like MRI, CT and ultrasound scans may also be necessary.
Treatment
This requires the services of an endocrinologist in its management as there exist no single course of treatment for this condition because a number of hormones may be affected. The essence is to ensure that all the hormones are normal and performs their duties optimally. Please note that it may involve the use of medications to substitute the hormones in the pituitary gland that is not producing properly. However, surgical intervention may be required in case of a tumor. Radiation therapy may also be useful in removing a tumor.
