Panhypopituitarism- An unusual presenation of tuberculous meningitis

Abstract

Pituitary gland involvement is a very rare entity of central nervous system tuberculosis. Tubercular meningitis (TBM) is a chronic meningitis on hypothalamic-pituitary axis which causes high morbidity and mortality hence it is the most dreaded form of extra pulmonary tuberculosis. Here we report a case of 24 year old female presenting with three months history of fever and headache along with altered sensorium since four days. There was also complain of secondary amenorrhea and generalised apathy. Neuroimaging revealed subependymal tuberculomas with meningitis and obstructive hydrocephalus. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination was also suggestive of tubercular meningitis. Endocrinological investigations showed multiple hormonal deficiencies manifesting as pituitary hypothyroidism, hypocortisolism, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and hypoprolactinemia. Anti-tuberculosis treatment was started, and it led to significant improvement in the general condition of the patient.