Pickardt syndrome

Signs and symptoms

Cause

Interruption of the portal system may be caused by tumors compressing the infundibulum. Other causes for Pickardt's syndrome are inflammatory disorders and traumatic brain injury. An inborn variant of Pickardt's syndrome that is associated with certain mutations (HESX1 or LHX4) is referred to as pituitary stalk interruption syndrome (PSIS).

Endocrine consequences

Typical manifestations of Pickardt–Fahlbusch syndrome are hypothyroidism with reduced TSH values and functional hyperprolactinemia (which is caused by disinhibition of prolactin release). Other endocrine disorders that are usually associated with Pickardt syndrome are suprasellar failures like secondary hypogonadism, reduced levels of growth hormone and, in more severe cases, secondary adrenal insufficiency.

Diagnosis

Pickardt's syndrome may cause difficulties in differential diagnosis of pituitary adenomas, as both suprasellar hormone-inactive adenomas and prolactinomas may be associated with increased prolactin levels, central hypogonadism and central hypothyroidism. Usually, the prolactin levels are higher in case of a true prolactinoma, but the concentration ranges overlap.

Treatment

Treatment modality depends on the cause. Tumors may be removed surgically, but pituitary stalk interruption may persist. Usually, replacement of those hormones that are reduced due to failed feedback control systems will be necessary.

References

References

1. (1972). "Chronic hyperosmolality, adipsia and secondary insufficiency of the anterior pituitary gland in hypothalamic lesions". Internist (Berl).
2. Pickardt, C. R.. (1973). "Portal Vessels Occlusion. A Cause for Pituitary Insufficiency in Patiens with Pituitary Tumors". European Journal of Clinical Investigation.
3. Reynaud R, Albarel F, Saveanu A, Kaffel N, Castinetti F, Lecomte P, Brauner R, Simonin G, Gaudart J, Carmona E, Enjalbert A, Barlier A, Brue T. (April 2011). "Pituitary Stalk Interruption Syndrome in 83 patients: novel HESX1 mutation and severe hormonal prognosis in malformative forms". Eur J Endocrinol.