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Primary adrenal insufficiency, or Addison’s disease: Damage to the adrenal glands affects its production of hormones.There are three types of adrenal insufficiency: It leads to low levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that is important for many bodily functions. They produce vital hormones, including cortisol.Īdrenal insufficiency is when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of certain hormones. The adrenal glands are small glands positioned above the kidneys. In men, excessive prolactin can cause reduced libido and erectile dysfunction.Share on Pinterest fanjianhua/Getty Images They can cause irregularity or loss of periods, infertility and breast milk secretion. Prolactin-producing tumors (prolactinomas) are more frequent in women. The most common hormone produced by pituitary tumors is prolactin. In addition, pituitary tumors that produce excessive amounts of hormones overstimulate other endocrine glands and cause symptoms. However, because of the location of the pituitary gland, large pituitary tumors can press against the optic nerves, causing vision problems. Hypopituitarism can have impact on hormone production in the adrenals, thyroid, testes or ovaries. Hypopituitarism, also called an underactive pituitary gland, affects the function of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. Symptoms, if they are present, can include impotence, reduced sexual desire and irregular menstruation. Empty Sella SyndromeĮmpty sella syndrome is characterized by an enlarged bony structure that houses the pituitary gland at the base of the brain.
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Diabetes insipidus is not related to diabetes mellitus, although some of the symptoms are similar. Diabetes Insipidusĭiabetes insipidus results from insufficient production of ADH, a hormone that helps the body conserve the optimal amount of water.
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Cushing’s SyndromeĬushing’s syndrome occurs when a pituitary tumor produces excessive amount of a hormone called ACTH, which elevates blood cortisol levels. More than 95% of acromegaly cases are caused by benign tumors on the pituitary gland.
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AcromegalyĪcromegaly occurs when a pituitary tumor produces excess growth hormones. Pituitary conditions can affect sexual development, thyroid function, growth, skin pigmentation and adrenal function.
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