HYPOPITUITARISM
Hypopituitarism refers to the lack of hormone secretion from the pituitary gland, primarily the anterior lobe. The cause of this condition may be the result of pituitary surgery, radiation, injury to the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, growth retardation, empty sella syndrome and infection.

PITUITARY HORMONES LH & FSH
In women, lutenizing hormone (LH) stimulates ovulation and the secretion of estrogen and progesterone. Follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the development of ovarian follicles and spermatogenesis in men.  In women, a deficiency may cause an irregular or absence of menstruation, infertility, decrease in libido and breast changes. In men, a deficiency in these hormones can result in a decrease in libido, testicular atrophy, impotence and a decrease in body hair.

TSH
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is important in the regulation of metabolic activities. Central hypothyroidism causes cold sensitivity, constipation, weight gain, dry skin, fatigue, a decrease in energy and swelling. Often, it is necessary to take thyroid replacement to alleviate these symptoms. Central hypothyroidism is frequently the result of pituitary damage or due to radiation treatment. Patients need to take thyroid replacement to sustain normal body functions and control the metabolism. To determine if the dose of thyroid replacement is correct the FT4 level should be drawn. TSH is not a useful test to measure in central hypothyroidism.

GH
Growth Hormone (GH) is a condition that can develop after pituitary surgery, radiotherapy, brain trauma or other injury to the pituitary. Signs and symptoms of adult growth hormone deficiency include a decrease in muscle mass, change in body composition, decrease in bone density, abnormal lipid profile, depression and social isolation. Growth hormone replacement can often reverse these symptoms however the beneficial effects may take several months. To determine if an individual has growth hormone deficiency, it is usually necessary to perform a stimulation test. Diagnostic tests for growth hormone deficiency include the Insulin tolerance test, Arginine /GHRH stimulation test and Arginine stimulation test. Growth hormone replacement must be given by a subcutaneous injection to work. Popular treatment options include Norditropin, Genotropin, Nutropin, Saizen and Humatrope.

ACTH
Central adrenal insufficiency is a condition that results when the adrenal glands secrete an insufficient amount of cortisol. An abnormal secretion of Adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) can prevent the adrenal glands ability to function properly. Cortisol is important for the control of the immune system, metabolism of carbohydrates and protein. Common symptoms of central adrenal insufficiency include weakness, joint pain and muscle discomfort. Failure to treat this disorder with steroid replacement could cause the body to go into shock. It is essential for patients to wear a medical alert bracelet if they have adrenal sufficiency and are steroid dependent. Diagnostic tests for Adrenal Insufficiency include the Low dose ACTH stimulation test, Traditional ACTH stimulation test and Insulin tolerance test.