Magnetic resonance imaging and hormonal profile of the pituitary gland in patients with primary congenital hypothyroidism

UNLABELLED: The aim of our study was an estimation of the size and structure of the pituitary gland using MRI and the estimation of hormonal profile of the pituitary anterior lobe (except for ACTH) in 21 adult patients with congenital primary hypothyroidism. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The studied group was divided into 2 subgroups: A--with normal level of serum TSH and B--with its elevated. The MRI showed pituitary hyperplasia or tumor in 28.5% of patients, partially empty sella in 14.3% and hypoplasia in 9.5%. In subgroup B there were mostly hyperplasia or tumor (35.7%), while in subgroup A there were no domination of any abnormalities. RESULTS: Serum mean TSH level was 49.8+/-86.2 mU/l with an increase in 67%. The mean prolactin was 11.2+/-7.5 mg/ml with an increase in 19%. Serum LH and FSH concentrations were normal in the whole group. The mean alpha subunit level was elevated in 52%. In 42.8% somatotropic hypopituitarism was recognised due to GH stimulation tests. CONCLUSIONS: The TRH hyperstimulation in patients with congenital primary hypothyroidism may lead to pituitary hyperplasia or tumor visible on MRI and to pituitary hormonal abnormalities.