Lymphocytic Hypophysitis: Causes and Symptoms
Lymphocytic hypophysitis is a disorder that leads to hypopituitarism in pregnant women. It is characterized by inflammation in the pituitary caused by immune cells. Although this condition mainly occurs during late pregnancy and the postpartum period, it can also develop after menopause and in pre-puberty. Interestingly, men can also be affected by lymphocytic hypophysitis.
The exact cause of lymphocytic hypophysitis remains unknown. However, experts speculate that lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, infiltrate the pituitary gland, resulting in its enlargement and disruption of its normal function. It is worth noting that lymphocytic hypophysitis is more common than Sheehan’s syndrome, a condition associated with pituitary gland damage, thanks to the improved obstetrics care provided in modern medical facilities.
Understanding Empty Sella Syndrome
Empty Sella Syndrome refers to an anatomical abnormality that affects the pituitary gland, which is located in a depression called the sella turcica at the base of the brain. In this condition, there are two primary forms: primary and secondary.
In the primary form, pressure builds up inside the sella turcica, causing the pituitary gland to become flattened. On the other hand, the secondary form occurs when the pituitary gland is no longer positioned within the sella turcica due to factors such as injury, surgery, or radiation treatments.
One of the potential complications of Empty Sella Syndrome is infertility. The abnormality can interfere with the proper functioning of the pituitary gland, which plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormones. Another common symptom of this condition is fatigue, which can be attributed to hormonal imbalances and the resulting disruption in the body’s normal processes.
Individuals with Empty Sella Syndrome may also experience a lack of stress tolerance. This could be due to the impact of the condition on the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing stress hormones. Furthermore, the weakened pituitary gland may also compromise the body’s immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections.