Hypopituitarism is characterized by which of the following?

Hypopituitarism is characterized by which of the following?

• A. Subnormal secretion of pituitary hormones
• B. Excessive secretion of pituitary hormones
• C. Normal pituitary function with target organ failure
• D. Isolated deficiency of adrenal cortisol only

Answer: (D)

Hypopituitarism means the pituitary gland fails to secrete enough of its hormones. The pituitary governs several endocrine pathways, so when it underperforms, you see reduced production of one or more hormones such as ACTH, TSH, LH/FSH, GH, or prolactin. The clinical picture varies with which axes are affected, from growth problems in children to fatigue, secondary adrenal insufficiency, or hypothyroidism in adults. Saying there is an isolated deficiency of cortisol implies a problem located in the adrenal gland itself (or a pituitary defect limited to ACTH), rather than a broader failure of pituitary output. Therefore, the defining feature is subnormal secretion of pituitary hormones, reflecting impaired pituitary function rather than a primary adrenal issue.

Hypopituitarism means the pituitary gland fails to secrete enough of its hormones. The pituitary governs several endocrine pathways, so when it underperforms, you see reduced production of one or more hormones such as ACTH, TSH, LH/FSH, GH, or prolactin. The clinical picture varies with which axes are affected, from growth problems in children to fatigue, secondary adrenal insufficiency, or hypothyroidism in adults. Saying there is an isolated deficiency of cortisol implies a problem located in the adrenal gland itself (or a pituitary defect limited to ACTH), rather than a broader failure of pituitary output. Therefore, the defining feature is subnormal secretion of pituitary hormones, reflecting impaired pituitary function rather than a primary adrenal issue.