[Primary hypothyroidism presenting with amenorrhea, galactorrhea, hyperprolactinemia and enlarged pituitary].

Abstract

The combination of amenorrhea, galactorrhea, and hyperprolactinemia in a young woman usually suggests a prolactin-secreting adenoma of the anterior pituitary gland. Primary thyroid failure may also be associated with hyperprolactinemia, galactorrhea and suprasellar enlargement of the pituitary. 2 women, aged 23 and 28, respectively, presented with the latter syndrome. 1 was even a candidate for neurosurgery. However, because serum TSH and prolactin levels were elevated, thyroxin replacement therapy was started. It induced normal menses, galactorrhea stopped, and in follow-up CT scans the pituitary become normal in size. Hyperprolactinemia with secondary hypothyroidism, caused by a pituitary adenoma, must be distinguished from primary hypothyroidism, also a cause of hyperprolactinemia.

• Authors: O P Tadmor, I Barr, Y Z Diamant
• Journal: Harefuah (Harefuah) Vol. 122 Issue 2 Pg. 76-8 (Jan 15 1992) ISSN: 0017-7768 [Print] Israel
• PMID: 1572562 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Thyroxine

Topics

• Adenoma (diagnosis)
• Adult
• Amenorrhea (etiology)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Female
• Galactorrhea (etiology)
• Humans
• Hyperplasia
• Hyperprolactinemia (etiology)
• Hypothyroidism (complications, diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Pituitary Gland (pathology)
• Pituitary Gland, Anterior
• Pituitary Neoplasms (diagnosis)
• Thyroxine (therapeutic use)