HYPOPITUITARISM FOLLOWING TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI)

Amer O. Al Ali, MD, Mohammed A. Sweid, MD, Ahmad A. Majrabi, MD, Marwah AM. Al Agsam, MD, *Nasir A. M. Al Jurayyan, MD

ABSTRACT

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability in children, Post-traumatic hypopituitarism was initially recognized more than a century, but it was thought to be a rare occurrence. We describe a case of Post-traumatic panhypopituitarism following head injury. He presented with recurrent hypoglycemia and short stature, and proved to have growth hormone, Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and cortisol deficiencies. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed an empty Sella turcia. Accurate evaluation and long-term follow up are necessary to detect the occurrence of hypopituitarism. In order to improve the outcome and quality of life of traumatic brain injury (TBI), an adequate replacement therapy is of paramount importance.

Keywords: Cortisol deficiency, growth hormone deficiency, hypoglycemia, hypopituitarism, short stature, traumatic brain injury, Thyroid –Stimulating Hormone (TSH).