Pituitary apoplexy. A review
R. L. Reid, M. E. Quigley and S. S. Yen
Pituitary apoplexy, a rare but life-threatening condition, may be highly
variable in its clinical appearance and therefore should be considered in
any patient with abrupt neurologic deterioration. We reviewed the
literature on acute massive pituitary infarction to create an awareness of
predisposing factors, the pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for its
heterogeneous manifestations, and possible options for investigation and
management. These concepts are reinforced by examining the course and
outcome of a rare case of pituitary apoplexy manifesting a full range of
neurologic and endocrine abnormalities.
