Hypopituitarism (Pituitary Gland Deficiency)

News Center

Health Centers

Medical Encyclopedia

Drugs & Medications

Diseases & Conditions

Medical Symptoms

Med. Tests & Exams

Surgery & Procedures

Injuries & Wounds

Diet & Nutrition

Special Topics

$\"$alt_text\"$ ');"); } else { echo" $\"$alt_text\"$ "; } ?>

You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Hypopituitarism
Category : Health Centers > Endocrine Disorders

Hypopituitarism

Alternate Names : Pituitary Gland Deficiency

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

The pituitary gland is located inside the skull. When this gland becomes less active than normal for any reason, hypopituitarism is said to occur.

What is going on in the body?

The pituitary gland is sometimes called the master gland of the body. It secretes many important hormones that have different effects on other glands in the body. When the pituitary gland is not working correctly, many things can go wrong in the body.

The danger of hypopituitarism is that levels of other key hormones may become too low. When thyroid hormone and adrenal hormone are extremely low, death may occur. The underlying cause of this condition, such as a tumor, may also have risks.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

This condition has several causes, including:

tumors of the pituitary gland

surgical removal of the pituitary gland

abnormal inflammation of the pituitary gland, such as from an infection

a complication of childbirth

radiation to the head

head injury

		Next section
		Hypopituitarism: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Adam Brochert, MD
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 05/01/01

$\"$alt_text\"$ ');"); } else { echo" $\"$alt_text\"$ "; } ?>