Effects of endosulfan intoxication on pituitary functions

Abstract

Context. We investigated the effects of endosulfan intoxication on pituitary functions in three patients. Methods. This is an observational case series including three patients with endosulfan intoxication. Patients were evaluated 3 months after the acute event. Results. Based on the baseline hormonal values and dynamic endocrine tests, one patient had hypothalamo-pituitary–adrenal axis impairment and was diagnosed as ACTH deficiency (peak cortisol level was found 13.12 μg/dl after low dose ACTH stimulation test), and another one had GH–IGF-I axis impairment and was diagnosed as GH deficiency (peak GH level was found 1.06 μg/L after glucagon stimulation test). Conclusions. Endosulfan intoxication might cause pituitary hormone deficiencies after the acute phase. Therefore, patients with endosulfan toxicity should be followed for possible pituitary gland dysfunction.