Panhypopituitarism after traumatic head injury

Neurocrit Care. 2006;4(1):21-4. doi: 10.1385/NCC:4:1:021.

Abstract

Introduction: We describe a case report of panhypopituitarism after traumatic head injury. A previously healthy young man suffered a closed head injury and multiple spinal fractures after a motorcycle accident.

Methods: His treatment in the intensive care unit was prolonged because of numerous problems with raised intracranial pressure, hemodynamics, and electrolyte balance.

Results: Eventually, hypocortisolism and other pituitary hormone deficiencies were diagnosed. Magnetic resonance images showed incoherent pituitary stalk and re-review of the first computed tomography scans of the day of the accident confirmed hemorrhage in the infundibulum.

Conclusion: This case and review of the literature suggests that hormone deficiencies are not uncommon after head injuries.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain Injuries / complications*
  • Humans
  • Hypopituitarism / diagnosis
  • Hypopituitarism / etiology*
  • Male
  • Pituitary Gland / injuries*