HYPOPITUITARISM: A CASE REPORT OF OVERLOOKED DIAGNOSIS.

Abstract

Hypopituitarism, which has a number of causes, is a severe endocrine condition that needs early diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious consequences. We report a 17-year old male seen in outpatient department for lack of development of secondary sexual characters and short stature. Laboratory investigation showed low total tri-iodothyronine (T3) , low total thyroxine (T4) and slightly elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) , low basal cortisol, and normal prolactin level. The patient also had low total testosterone, low LH, and FSH values. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary revealed a hypoplastic anterior pituitary with ectopic posterior pituitary. This case highlights the notable absence of recognizing the clinical presentation of hypopituitarism which at times is nonspecic and often progress insidiously before a diagnosis is made. The case calls attention to importance of thorough history taking, attention, and observation in making a new diagnosis that has the potential to alter a patient's health care and quality of life.