management

Last reviewed 01/2018

The pituitary gland is essential for endocrine and metabolic homeostasis.

The loss of one or more of the control systems which are regulated by the pituitary may result in coma. For this reason, when treating hypopituitary coma the following possible causes should be considered:

  • adrenocortical deficiency
  • hypothyroidism
  • hypothermia
  • electrolyte disturbances:
    • water intoxication
    • salt and water depletion
  • hypoglycaemia
  • hypoxia
  • hypotension (due to steroid deficiency or hypovolaemia)

When the coma has been relieved a daily hormone replacement therapy will be required.