Secondary partial empty sella syndrome in an elite bodybuilder.

Abstract

The pituitary gland is a hormone-responsive gland and is known to vary in size depending on the hormonal status of the patient and the multifaceted positive and negative feedback hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Partial empty sella syndrome with an atrophied pituitary gland is seen in primary neuroendocrinopathies such as growth hormone deficiency, primary hypothyroidism, central diabetes insipidus and hypogonadism. Partial empty sella has also been shown to occur in patients with elevations in intracranial pressure. Secondary partial empty sella syndrome with significant pituitary gland atrophy from negative feedback inhibition of long-term exogenous hormonal use has not been previously reported. We are reporting on a case of partial empty sella syndrome occurring in an elite bodybuilder with a long history of exogenous abuse of growth hormone, testosterone and thyroid hormone. The pathophysiological mechanisms of secondary partial empty sella syndrome from exogenous hormone use and the possibility for elevations in intracranial pressure contributing to this syndrome will be discussed.

• Authors: R D Dickerman, S Jaikumar
• Journal: Neurological research (Neurol Res) Vol. 23 Issue 4 Pg. 336-8 (Jun 2001) ISSN: 0161-6412 [Print] England
• PMID: 11428511 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anabolic Agents

Topics

• Adult
• Anabolic Agents (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Empty Sella Syndrome (chemically induced)
• Feedback
• Humans
• Male
• Self Administration
• Time Factors
• Weight Lifting