Lymphocytic Hypophysitis with Isolated Corticotropin Deficiency

  1. MICHAEL D. JENSEN, M.D.;
  2. BARRY S. HANDWERGER, M.D.;
  3. BERND W. SCHEITHAUER, M.D.;
  4. PAUL C. CARPENTER, M.D.;
  5. RITA MIRAKIAN, M.D.; and
  6. PETER M. BANKS, M.D.
  1. Rochester, Minnesota; and London
    , England

    Abstract

    In a 32-year-old woman, acquired, isolated corticotropin deficiency resulted from postpartum lymphocytic hypophysitis. The literature suggests that lymphocytic hypophysitis may cause acquired deficiencies of anterior, and possibly posterior, pituitary hormones. Immunologic evaluation of our patient failed to uncover anticorticotroph antibodies. Prompt recognition of this potentially fatal condition is important because of the availability of effective treatment.

    Article and Author Information

    • ▸From the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Internal Medicine, the Rheumatology Research Unit, and the Section of Surgical Pathology, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota; and the Department of Immunology, Arthur Stanley Institute, The Middlesex Hospital Medical School, London, England.

    • ▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to Michael D. Jensen, M.D.; Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW; Rochester, MN 55905.

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    1. Ann Intern Med August 1, 1986 vol. 105 no. 2 200-203
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