Attached to the hypothalamus is the pituitary gland. This master gland is responsible for producing and releasing many very potent hormones. These hormones can influence the function of some or all of the cells of the body. The pituitary gland is separated into the pituitary stalk (the attachment of the pituitary gland to the hypothalamus), and anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary. The anterior lobe of the pituitary produces growth hormone, prolactin (which stimulates breasts to produce milk), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenal-stimulating hormone (ACTH), and ovarian- or testicular-stimulating hormones. The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland produces antidiuretic hormone, which affects the kidneys in regulating concentration and quantity of urine, and oxytocin, which stimulates contractions of the uterus during childbirth and releases milk during breast-feeding. Underactivity of the pituitary gland results in inadequate amounts of hormones being produced by the pituitary.
Causes of Pituitary Gland, Underactive
Hypopituitarism may occur without any defined cause. It can result from serious head injuries. Reduced blood supply to the pituitary gland in a mother following severe hemorrhage and shock during childbirth can damage the pituitary gland. Tumors can occur within the pituitary gland or may occur adjacent to the pituitary gland. Both of these types of tumors can lead to pituitary dysfunction. Infections of the brain, such as meningitis, can lead to pituitary dysfunction. Aneurysms of the of blood vessels at the base of the brain or bleeding around the base of the brain can damage the pituitary gland.
Signs and Symptoms of Pituitary Gland, Underactive
The symptoms that develop from an underactive pituitary gland depend entirely on which hormone is affected. It also depends of the degree with which the hormone is not produced. Symptoms may include menstrual irregularities in women and erectile dysfunction in men. Infertility may occur in both sexes. Weakness, fatigue and intolerance to cold or physiological stress can occur. Weight gain and constipation may develop. Hair loss and dry, thick skin may develop. Retarded growth in children may develop. If the pituitary does not function normally during puberty, secondary sexual varcharacteristics may not develop or may not develop fully. This can lead to lack of voice changes, breast development and growth of pubic hair. Confusion may develop. Lethargy and headaches may occur. Constant thirst and an increased quantity and frequency or urination may develop.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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