Chapter 10 - Anterior Pituitary Failure

Abstract

Hypopituitarism results from the failure of one or more pituitary hormones to be produced or secreted from the anterior pituitary. The anterior lobe of the pituitary is responsible for the production and secretion of hormones that affect specific peripheral glandular tissues. The anterior pituitary is under control of the hypothalamus via hypophysiotropic neurohormonal regulation, which integrates feedback mechanisms that govern secretion of hypothalamic factors, pituitary hormones and peripheral hormones. Peripheral stimuli from a wide array of sources prompt modulation of the neurohormonal control of anterior pituitary function, including production and secretion of pituitary hormones. These hormones are released into the circulation, resulting in specific systemic effects. Anterior pituitary failure can result from the disruption of any step in the production, stimulation, secretion and regulation of these hormones.