Hypothalamic and Pituitary Tumors

Sheehan Syndrome – Endocrinologist Review on Hypothalamus and Pituitary Tumors

Sheehan syndrome is a serious endocrine disorder characterized by functional insufficiency of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. It usually occurs after childbirth with significant blood loss and changes in blood pressure, leading to pituitary infarction. The pituitary enlarges, but its blood supply is insufficient, resulting in pituitary hypoxia and pituitary necrosis.

Symptoms of Sheehan Syndrome

• Weakness and fatigue
• Reduction or cessation of breast function
• Low blood pressure
• Hair loss and weight loss
• General malaise and discomfort

If diagnosis is delayed and treatment is not provided by an endocrinologist, the disease progression worsens, and women may not resume ovulation or achieve pregnancy. The pituitary cannot self-repair this damage, making timely hormonal therapy essential.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Sheehan syndrome is based on blood levels of pituitary and hypothalamus hormones. Additionally, an endocrinologist performs examinations to rule out pituitary tumors and other related pathologies.

Treatment and Hormonal Therapy

Treatment usually includes hormonal therapy along with management of infantilism. Patients are prescribed synthetic progesterone and gonadotropins for 2-3 months. Once the treatment is effective, the gonadotropin dose is gradually reduced. This approach temporarily blocks pituitary function and later restores its activity.