Excess mortality in women with pituitary disease: a meta-analysis

Cardiometabolic effects of hypoprolactinemia

The fall of PRL levels below the lower limit of the normal range configures the condition of hypoprolactinemia. Unlike PRL excess, whose clinical features and treatments are well established, hypoprolactinemia has been only recently described as a morbid entity requiring prompt identification and proper therapeutic approach. Particularly, hypoprolactinemia has been reported to be associated with the development of metabolic syndrome and impaired cardiometabolic health, as visceral obesity, insulin-resistance, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, chronic inflammation, and sexual dysfunction have been found more prevalent in patients with hypoprolactinemia as compared to those with normoprolactinemia. This evidence has been collected mainly in patients on chronic treatment with dopamine agonists for PRL excess due to a PRL-secreting pituitary tumour, and less frequently in those receiving the atypical antipsychotic aripiprazole. Nowadays, hypoprolactinemia appears to represent a novel and unexpected risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, as is the case for hyperprolactinemia. Nevertheless, current knowledge still lacks an accurate biochemical definition of hypoprolactinemia, since no clear PRL threshold has been established to rule in the diagnosis of PRL deficiency enabling early identification of those individual subjects with increased cardiovascular risk directly ascribable to the hormonal imbalance. The current review article focuses on the effects of hypoprolactinemia on the modulation of body weight, gluco-insulinemic and lipid profile, and provides latest knowledge about potential cardiovascular outcomes of hypoprolactinemia.

Sex Steroid Levels in Women With Hypopituitarism: A Case-controlled Observational Study

CONTEXT

Women with hypopituitarism remain at increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Insufficient replacement of sex steroids has been suggested as a contributing factor, but sex steroid levels in women with hypopituitarism have not been comprehensively mapped.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify sex steroids in women with hypopituitarism by a high-sensitivity assay.

METHODS

Using a combination of clinical and biochemical criteria, women with hypopituitarism (n = 104) who started GH replacement in 1995 to 2014 at a single center were categorized as eugonadal or having hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH). A population-based cohort of women (n = 288) served as controls. Eugonadal women and controls were categorized as pre-/postmenopausal and HH women as younger/older (≤ or >52 years). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, progesterone, 17αOH-progesterone, estradiol, and estrone were analyzed by a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay.

RESULTS

Among both premenopausal/younger and postmenopausal/older women, women with HH had lower levels of sex steroid precursors (DHEA, androstenedione) and androgens (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) than controls. Progesterone, 17αOH-progesterone, estrone, and estradiol showed similar patterns. Women with HH and ACTH deficiency had markedly lower concentrations of all sex hormones than those without ACTH deficiency.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates for the first time a broad and severe sex steroid deficiency in both younger and older women with HH, particularly in those with combined gonadotropin and ACTH deficiency. The health impact of low sex steroid levels in women with hypopituitarism requires further study, and women with combined gonadotropin and ACTH deficiency should be a prioritized group for intervention studies with sex hormone replacement.

Replacement with sex steroids in hypopituitary men and women: implications for gender differences in morbidities and mortality

Hypopituitarism is a heterogenous disorder characterised by a deficiency in one or more anterior pituitary hormones. There are marked sex disparities in the morbidity and mortality experienced by patients with hypopituitarism. In women with hypopituitarism, the prevalence of many cardiovascular risk factors, myocardial infarction, stroke and mortality are significantly elevated compared to the general population, however in men, they approach that of the general population. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG) is the most sexually dimorphic pituitary hormone axis. Gonadotropin deficiency is caused by a deficiency of either hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or pituitary gonadotropins, namely follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH). HPG axis dysfunction results in oestrogen and testosterone deficiency in women and men, respectively. Replacement of deficient sex hormones is the mainstay of treatment in individuals not seeking fertility. Oestrogen and testosterone replacement in women and men, respectively, have numerous beneficial health impacts. These benefits include improved body composition, enhanced insulin sensitivity, improved atherogenic lipid profiles and increased bone mineral density. Oestrogen replacement in women also reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. When women and men are considered together, untreated gonadotropin deficiency is independently associated with an increased mortality risk. However, treatment with sex hormone replacement reduces the mortality risk comparable to those with an intact gonadal axis. The reasons for the sex disparities in mortality remain poorly understood. Potential explanations include the reversal of women's natural survival advantage over men, premature loss of oestrogen's cardioprotective effect, less aggressive cardiovascular risk factor modification and inadequate oestrogen replacement in women with gonadotropin deficiency. Regrettably, historical inertia and unfounded concerns about the safety of oestrogen replacement in women of reproductive age have impeded the treatment of gonadotropin deficiency.

Excess mortality in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) often present with a variety of clinical manifestations and comorbidities, mainly determined by the local mass effect of the tumor and by hypopituitarism. Whether this has an impact on overall mortality, however, is still unclear.

METHODS

PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched until May 2023 for studies reporting data either about standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) or about predictors of mortality in patients with NFPA. Effect sizes were pooled through a random-effect model. This systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, #CRD42023417782).

RESULTS

Eleven studies were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review; among these, five studies reported data on SMRs, with a total follow-up time of approximately 130,000 person-years. Patients with NFPA showed an increased mortality risk compared to the general population (SMR = 1.57 [95%CI: 1.20-1.99], p < 0.01). Age and sex appeared to act as effect modifiers, with a trend towards higher SMRs in females (SMR = 1.57 [95%CI: 0.91-2.41], p = 0.10) than in males (SMR = 1.00 [95%CI: 0.89-1.11], p = 0.97), and in patients diagnosed at age 40 years or younger (SMR = 3.19 [95%CI: 2.50-3.97], p < 0.01) compared to those with later onset of the disease (SMR = 1.26 [95%CI: 0.93-1.65], p = 0.13). The trend towards excess mortality was similar in patients with normal (SMR = 1.22 [95%CI: 0.94-1.53], p = 0.13) or deficient (SMR = 1.26 [95%CI: 0.82-1.79], p = 0.27) pituitary function.

CONCLUSIONS

Excess mortality is observed in patients with NFPA, regardless of pituitary function, especially in women and in patients with a younger age at diagnosis.

Morbidities and mortality among hospitalized patients with hypopituitarism: Prevalence, causes and management

Hypopituitarism is a highly heterogeneous multisystem disorder that can have a major impact on long-term morbidity and mortality, but even more so during acute medical conditions requiring hospitalization. Recent studies suggest a significant in-hospital burden with prolonged length of stay, increased rate of intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and initiation of mechanical ventilation - all of which may lead to an increased risk of in-hospital mortality. On the one hand, patients with hypopituitarism are often burdened by metabolic complications, including obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia, which alone, or in combination, are known to significantly alter relevant physiological mechanisms, including metabolism, innate and adaptive immune responses, coagulation, and wound healing, thereby contributing to adverse in-hospital outcomes. On the other hand, depending on the extent and the number of pituitary hormone deficiencies, early recognition of hormone deficiencies and appropriate management and replacement strategy within a well-organized multidisciplinary team are even stronger determinants of short-term outcomes during acute hospitalization in this vulnerable patient population. This review aims to provide an up-to-date summary of recent advances in pathophysiologic understanding, clinical implications, and recommendations for optimized multidisciplinary management of hospitalized patients with hypopituitarism.

Sex Differences in Long-Term Safety and Tolerability of GH Replacement Therapy in GH Deficient Adults

CONTEXT

Previous studies report that outcomes of growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy (GHRT) might be less beneficial in growth hormone deficient (GHD) women compared with men.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated possible contributing factors regarding this previously found sex difference.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study, conducted at a nationwide outpatient clinic (the Dutch National Registry of GH Treatment in Adults), included Dutch adult GHD men (n = 1335) and women (n = 1251) treated with GHRT. The patients' baseline characteristics, details of GHRT, and the tolerability and long-term safety of GHRT were measured.

RESULTS

During treatment, sensitivity analysis showed that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) SD scores remained subnormal more often in women (P < 0.001), while scores above normal were more frequent in men (P < 0.001). Women reported more adverse events (P < 0.001), especially symptoms related to fluid retention, and more often needed a dose reduction or temporary stop of GHRT (P = 0.001). In percentages, both sexes equally discontinued GHRT, as was also true for the risk in developing type 2 diabetes mellitus, benign neoplasms, and tumor recurrence. The risk of developing malignant neoplasms was higher in men (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Data obtained from the Dutch National Registry of GH Treatment in Adults indicate that GHD women might be treated suboptimally, reflected as lower IGF-1 status and lower GHRT tolerability, leading to more frequent changes in treatment regimen but not discontinuation of GHRT. Regarding long-term safety, we found a higher risk for development of malignancies in GHD men.

Why do patients with hypopituitarism still present an increased mortality?

Hypopituitarism is defined as a lack or decreased secretion of one or several pituitary hormones. It can result from diseases of the pituitary gland or from pathologies of the superior regulatory center, i.e. the hypothalamus, thereby decreasing hypothalamic releasing hormones and consequently the pituitary hormones. It is still a rare disease with an estimated prevalence of 30-45 patients/100,000 and an incidence of 4-5/100,000/year. This review summarizes the currently available data with a focus on etiologies of hypopituitarism, evidence on mortality rates in patients with hypopituitarism, temporal trends in mortality , and associated diseases, pathophysiological mechanisms and risk factors that affect mortality risk in these patients.

Management of Dyslipidemia in Endocrine Diseases

Most endocrine disorders are chronic in nature, and thus even a minor effect to increase risk for cardiovascular disease can lead to a significant impact over prolonged duration. Although robust therapies exist for many endocrine disorders (eg suppression of excess hormone amounts, or replacement of hormone deficiencies), the therapies do not perfectly restore normal physiology. Thus, individuals with endocrine disorders are at potential increased cardiovascular disease risk, and maximizing strategies to reduce that risk are needed. This article reviews various endocrine conditions that can impact lipid levels and/or cardiovascular disease risk.

ENDOCRINE OBESITY: Pituitary dysfunction in obesity

Obesity, the growing pandemic of the 21st century, is associated with multiple organ dysfunction, either by a direct increase in fatty organ content or by indirect modifications related to general metabolic changes driven by a specific increase in biologic products. The pituitary gland is not protected against such a situation. Different hypothalamic-pituitary axes experience functional modifications initially oriented to an adaptive situation that, with years of obesity, turn to maladaptive dynamics that contribute to perpetuating obesity and specific symptoms of their hormonal nature. This paper reviews the recent knowledge on obesity-related pituitary dysfunction and its pathogenic mechanisms and discusses potential therapeutic actions aimed at contributing to ameliorating the complex treatment of severe cases of obesity.

COVID-19 and hypopituitarism

Besides the pulmonary manifestations caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), an emerging endocrine phenotype, which can heavily impact on the severity of the syndrome, has been recently associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Patients with pituitary diseases or the pituitary gland itself may also be involved in COVID-19 clinical presentation and/or severity, causing pituitary apoplexy.Moreover, hypopituitarism is frequently burdened by several metabolic complications, including arterial hypertension, hyperglycemia, obesity and vertebral fractures, which have all been associated with poor outcomes and increased mortality in patients infected by SARS-CoV-2.This review will discuss hypopituitarism as a condition that might have a bidirectional relationship with COVID-19 due to the frequent presence of metabolic comorbidities, to the direct or indirect pituitary damage or being per se a potential risk factor for COVID-19. Finally, we will address the current recommendations for the clinical management of vaccines in patients with hypopituitarism and adrenal insufficiency.

Incidence, mortality, and cardiovascular diseases in pituitary adenoma in Korea: a nationwide population-based study

PURPOSE

Few nationally representative studies have evaluated the epidemiology of PA (pituitary adenoma). This South Korean study evaluated the incidence of different PA subtypes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and related mortality.

METHODS

This population-based study evaluated 31,898 patients with PA during 2005-2015. The incidence of PA, mortality, and CVD occurrence in PA cases were evaluated during a median follow-up of 5.3 years (range: 0-10 years). Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations between CVD and mortality.

RESULTS

The annual incidences (per 100,000 population) were 3.5 for non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA), 1.6 for prolactinoma (PRL), 0.5 for growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma (GH), and 0.2 for adrenocorticotropic or thyroid-stimulating hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma (ACTH + TSH). The standardized mortality ratios were 1.9 for ACTH + TSH, 1.7 for NFPA with hypopituitarism, 1.4 for NFPA without hypopituitarism, 1.3 for GH, and 1.1 for PRL. During 2005-2015, the overall incidence of CVD among PA patients was 6.6% (2106 cases), and the standardized incidence ratios were 4.1 for hemorrhagic stroke, 3.0 for ischemic stroke, and 1.7 for acute myocardial infarction. The standardized incidence ratios for stroke were significantly higher in the ACTH + TSH and NFPA groups, which also had higher risks of CVD-related mortality, relative to the PRL and GH groups.

CONCLUSION

South Korea had a relatively high incidence of NFPA. The incidence of stroke was highest for ACTH + TSH and NFPA, which was directly related to mortality during long-term follow-up. Patients with these types of PA should receive stroke prevention measures to reduce their risk of mortality.

Lipid Management in Patients with Endocrine Disorders: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

OBJECTIVE

This guideline will provide the practicing endocrinologist with an approach to the assessment and treatment of dyslipidemia in patients with endocrine diseases, with the objective of preventing cardiovascular (CV) events and triglyceride-induced pancreatitis. The guideline reviews data on dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk in patients with endocrine disorders and discusses the evidence for the correction of dyslipidemia by treatment of the endocrine disease. The guideline also addresses whether treatment of the endocrine disease reduces ASCVD risk.

CONCLUSION

This guideline focuses on lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities associated with endocrine diseases, including diabetes mellitus, and whether treatment of the endocrine disorder improves not only the lipid abnormalities, but also CV outcomes. Based on the available evidence, recommendations are made for the assessment and management of dyslipidemia in patients with endocrine diseases.

The Medical Therapy of Craniopharyngiomas: The Way Ahead

CONTEXT

Craniopharyngiomas, which are categorized as adamantinomatous (ACPs) or papillary (PCPs), have traditionally been treated with surgery and/or radiotherapy, although when the tumors progress or recur, therapeutic possibilities are very limited. Following recent advances in their molecular pathogenesis, new medical therapeutic options have emerged.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The search strategy that we selected to identify the appropriate evidence involved the following medical subject headings (MeSH) terms: ("Craniopharyngioma" [MeSH] AND "Craniopharyngioma/drug therapy" [MeSH]) NOT ("review" [Publication Type] OR "review literature as topic" [MeSH Terms] OR "review" [All Fields]) AND ("2009/05/01" [PDat]: "2019/04/28" [PDat]).

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Mutations of β-catenin causing Wnt activation with alterations of the MEK/ERK pathway are encountered in the great majority of patients with ACPs; specific alterations also stratify patients to a more aggressive behavior. In most PCPs there is primary activation of the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway secondary to BRAF-V600E mutations. BRAF inhibitors, such as dabrafenib or vemurafenib, either alone or in combination with the MEK inhibitors trametinib and cobimetinib, have been administered to patients with PCPs producing clinically useful and, in some cases, sustained responses. In contrast to PCPs, drugs targeting β-catenin and its downstream MAPK pathway in ACPs have so far only been used in in vitro studies, but there appear to be promising new targets clinically.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of specific genetic alterations in patients with craniopharyngiomas has expanded the therapeutic options, providing evidence for a customized approach using newer molecular agents. More studies including a larger number of carefully selected patients are required to evaluate the response to currently available and evolving agents alone and in combination.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGISTS AND AMERICAN COLLEGE OF ENDOCRINOLOGY GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF GROWTH HORMONE DEFICIENCY IN ADULTS AND PATIENTS TRANSITIONING FROM PEDIATRIC TO ADULT CARE

Objective: The development of these guidelines is sponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) Board of Directors and American College of Endocrinology (ACE) Board of Trustees and adheres with published AACE protocols for the standardized production of clinical practice guidelines (CPG). Methods: Recommendations are based on diligent reviews of clinical evidence with transparent incorporation of subjective factors, according to established AACE/ACE guidelines for guidelines protocols. Results: The Executive Summary of this 2019 updated guideline contains 58 numbered recommendations: 12 are Grade A (21%), 19 are Grade B (33%), 21 are Grade C (36%), and 6 are Grade D (10%). These detailed, evidence-based recommendations allow for nuance-based clinical decision-making that addresses multiple aspects of real-world care of patients. The evidence base presented in the subsequent Appendix provides relevant supporting information for the Executive Summary recommendations. This update contains 357 citations of which 51 (14%) are evidence level (EL) 1 (strong), 168 (47%) are EL 2 (intermediate), 61 (17%) are EL 3 (weak), and 77 (22%) are EL 4 (no clinical evidence). Conclusion: This CPG is a practical tool that practicing endocrinologists and regulatory bodies can refer to regarding the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of adults and patients transitioning from pediatric to adult-care services with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). It provides guidelines on assessment, screening, diagnostic testing, and treatment recommendations for a range of individuals with various causes of adult GHD. The recommendations emphasize the importance of considering testing patients with a reasonable level of clinical suspicion of GHD using appropriate growth hormone (GH) cut-points for various GH-stimulation tests to accurately diagnose adult GHD, and to exercise caution interpreting serum GH and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, as various GH and IGF-1 assays are used to support treatment decisions. The intention to treat often requires sound clinical judgment and careful assessment of the benefits and risks specific to each individual patient. Unapproved uses of GH, long-term safety, and the current status of long-acting GH preparations are also discussed in this document. LAY ABSTRACT This updated guideline provides evidence-based recommendations regarding the identification, screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for a range of individuals with various causes of adult growth-hormone deficiency (GHD) and patients with childhood-onset GHD transitioning to adult care. The update summarizes the most current knowledge about the accuracy of available GH-stimulation tests, safety of recombinant human GH (rhGH) replacement, unapproved uses of rhGH related to sports and aging, and new developments such as long-acting GH preparations that use a variety of technologies to prolong GH action. Recommendations offer a framework for physicians to manage patients with GHD effectively during transition to adult care and adulthood. Establishing a correct diagnosis is essential before consideration of replacement therapy with rhGH. Since the diagnosis of GHD in adults can be challenging, GH-stimulation tests are recommended based on individual patient circumstances and use of appropriate GH cut-points. Available GH-stimulation tests are discussed regarding variability, accuracy, reproducibility, safety, and contraindications, among other factors. The regimen for starting and maintaining rhGH treatment now uses individualized dose adjustments, which has improved effectiveness and reduced reported side effects, dependent on age, gender, body mass index, and various other individual characteristics. With careful dosing of rhGH replacement, many features of adult GHD are reversible and side effects of therapy can be minimized. Scientific studies have consistently shown rhGH therapy to be beneficial for adults with GHD, including improvements in body composition and quality of life, and have demonstrated the safety of short- and long-term rhGH replacement. Abbreviations: AACE = American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists; ACE = American College of Endocrinology; AHSG = alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein; AO-GHD = adult-onset growth hormone deficiency; ARG = arginine; BEL = best evidence level; BMD = bone mineral density; BMI = body mass index; CI = confidence interval; CO-GHD = childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency; CPG = clinical practice guideline; CRP = C-reactive protein; DM = diabetes mellitus; DXA = dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; EL = evidence level; FDA = Food and Drug Administration; FD-GST = fixed-dose glucagon stimulation test; GeNeSIS = Genetics and Neuroendocrinology of Short Stature International Study; GH = growth hormone; GHD = growth hormone deficiency; GHRH = growth hormone-releasing hormone; GST = glucagon stimulation test; HDL = high-density lipoprotein; HypoCCS = Hypopituitary Control and Complications Study; IGF-1 = insulin-like growth factor-1; IGFBP = insulin-like growth factor-binding protein; IGHD = isolated growth hormone deficiency; ITT = insulin tolerance test; KIMS = Kabi International Metabolic Surveillance; LAGH = long-acting growth hormone; LDL = low-density lipoprotein; LIF = leukemia inhibitory factor; MPHD = multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies; MRI = magnetic resonance imaging; P-III-NP = procollagen type-III amino-terminal pro-peptide; PHD = pituitary hormone deficiencies; QoL = quality of life; rhGH = recombinant human growth hormone; ROC = receiver operating characteristic; RR = relative risk; SAH = subarachnoid hemorrhage; SDS = standard deviation score; SIR = standardized incidence ratio; SN = secondary neoplasms; T3 = triiodothyronine; TBI = traumatic brain injury; VDBP = vitamin D-binding protein; WADA = World Anti-Doping Agency; WB-GST = weight-based glucagon stimulation test.

Oxytocin therapy in hypopituitarism: Challenges and opportunities

Patients with hypopituitarism display impaired quality of life and excess morbidity and mortality, despite apparently optimal pituitary hormone replacement. Oxytocin is a neuropeptide synthesized in the anterior hypothalamus which plays an important role in controlling social and emotional behaviour, body weight and metabolism. Recent studies have suggested that a deficiency of oxytocin may be evident in patients with hypopituitarism and craniopharyngioma, and that this may be associated with deficits in cognitive empathy. Preliminary data hint at potential benefits of oxytocin therapy in improving these deficits and the accompanying metabolic disturbances that are common in these conditions. However, several challenges remain, including an incomplete understanding of the regulation and mechanisms of action of oxytocin, difficulties in accurately measuring oxytocin levels and in establishing a diagnosis of oxytocin deficiency, and a need to determine both the optimal mode of administration for oxytocin therapy and an acceptable safety profile with long-term use. This review considers the data linking oxytocin to the neuropsychological and metabolic disturbances evident in patients with craniopharyngioma and hypopituitarism, and describes the challenges that need to be overcome before replacement therapy can be considered as a therapeutic option in clinical practice.

Prevalence and treatment of central hypogonadism and hypoandrogenism in women with hypopituitarism

PURPOSE

Women with hypopituitarism have increased morbidity and mortality, and hypogonadism has been suggested to be a contributing mechanism. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of central hypogonadism and hypoandrogenism in women with hypopituitarism at a single Swedish center.

METHODS

All consecutive women (n = 184) who commenced growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg between 1995 and 2015 were included. In accordance with the Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines, strict criteria, based on menstrual history combined with laboratory measurements, were used to define central hypogonadism. Hypoandrogenism was defined as subnormal levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and/or androstenedione.

RESULTS

Central hypogonadism was present in 78% of the women, in 75% of those ≤ 52 years and in 82% of those > 52 years of age. Hypoandrogenism was found in 61% of all the women and in 92% of those with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) deficiency. The estrogen substitution rate in hypogonadal women ≤ 52 years was lower than the hormonal substitution rate in the other pituitary hormone axes (74% versus 100%, P < 0.001). The use of estrogen substitution tended to decrease between 2000 and 2016. Few women received androgen treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

In this first study of hypogonadism in women with hypopituitarism, using stringent diagnostic criteria for hypogonadism, the prevalence of central hypogonadism and low androgen levels was high and estrogen substitution was insufficient. Further studies are needed to elucidate the importance of hypogonadism and insufficient sex steroid replacement for the increased morbidity in hypopituitary women.

Excess morbidity and mortality in patients with craniopharyngioma: a hospital-based retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Most studies in patients with craniopharyngioma did not investigate morbidity and mortality relative to the general population nor evaluated risk factors for excess morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine excess morbidity and mortality, as well as their determinants in patients with craniopharyngioma.

DESIGN

Hospital-based retrospective cohort study conducted between 1987 and 2014.

METHODS

We included 144 Dutch and 80 Swedish patients with craniopharyngioma identified by a computer-based search in the medical records (105 females (47%), 112 patients with childhood-onset craniopharyngioma (50%), 3153 person-years of follow-up). Excess morbidity and mortality were analysed using standardized incidence and mortality ratios (SIRs and SMRs). Risk factors were evaluated univariably by comparing SIRs and SMRs between non-overlapping subgroups.

RESULTS

Patients with craniopharyngioma experienced excess morbidity due to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (SIR: 4.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.8-6.8) and cerebral infarction (SIR: 4.9, 95% CI: 3.1-8.0) compared to the general population. Risks for malignant neoplasms, myocardial infarctions and fractures were not increased. Patients with craniopharyngioma also had excessive total mortality (SMR: 2.7, 95% CI: 2.0-3.8), and mortality due to circulatory (SMR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.1-4.5) and respiratory (SMR: 6.0, 95% CI: 2.5-14.5) diseases. Female sex, childhood-onset craniopharyngioma, hydrocephalus and tumour recurrence were identified as risk factors for excess T2DM, cerebral infarction and total mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with craniopharyngioma are at an increased risk for T2DM, cerebral infarction, total mortality and mortality due to circulatory and respiratory diseases. Female sex, childhood-onset craniopharyngioma, hydrocephalus and tumour recurrence are important risk factors.

Time trends of mortality in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma: a Swedish nationwide study

PURPOSE

Patients with non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPA), especially women, have increased mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether mortality in NFPA patients has changed during the last two decades.

METHODS

This was a nationwide population-based study including 2795 patients (1502 men, 1293 women) diagnosed with NFPA between 1997 and 2011. Patients were identified and followed in Swedish National Health Registries. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) with 95 % confidence intervals were calculated for three time periods at first NFPA diagnosis using the general population as reference.

RESULTS

Mean (±SD) age at NFPA diagnosis was 58.9 ± 16.8 years. Mean (range) follow-up time was 8.3 (0-18) years, resulting in 20,517 patient-years at risk. Surgical treatment and radiotherapy were used in 53 and 5 %, respectively. The prevalence of hypopituitarism was 64 % during the first time period of diagnosis and then declined gradually during the study period (P value for trend <0.0001). The use of pituitary surgery and radiotherapy remained stable. In women, mortality was increased for patients diagnosed between 1997 and 2006 but not for those diagnosed between 2007 and 2011. The SMR in men remained stable throughout the study and did not differ from the general population. During the last time period, 2007-2011, the SMR between men and women did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

While mortality in men with NFPA remains normal and stable during the last two decades, mortality in women has declined. Decreasing prevalence of pituitary insufficiency may be a plausible explanation for this positive development.

Mortality in adults with hypopituitarism: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Hypopituitarism is a rare disorder with significant morbidity. To study the evidence on the association of premature mortality and hypopituitarism.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of multiple databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus was conducted through August, 2015. Eligible studies that evaluated patients with hypopituitarism and reported mortality estimates were selected following a predefined protocol. Reviewers, independently and in duplicate, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias.

RESULTS

We included 12 studies (published 1996-2015) that reported on 23,515 patients. Compared to the general population, hypopituitarism was associated with an overall excess mortality (weighted SMR of 1.55; 95 % CI 1.14-2.11), I ²  = 97.8 %, P = 0.000. Risk factors for increased mortality included younger age at diagnosis, female gender, diagnosis of craniopharyngioma, radiation therapy, transcranial surgery, diabetes insipidus and hypogonadism.

CONCLUSION

Hypopituitarism may be associated with premature mortality in adults. Risk is particularly higher in women and those diagnosed at a younger age.

Sex differences in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components in hypopituitary patients: comparison with an age- and sex-matched nationwide control group

PURPOSE

Hypopituitary patients have a reduced life expectancy owing to cardiovascular events. We investigated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in hypopituitary patients for a follow-up period of at least 1 year in comparison with an age- and sex-matched nationwide control group.

METHODS

A total of 515 patients with hypopituitarism who visited Seoul National University Hospital between January 2000 and December 2010 were included. Data for an age- and sex-matched control group were obtained from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES) (n = 1545). Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the modified National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP-ATPIII).

RESULTS

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome did not differ significantly between the hypopituitary and control groups for men (34.9 versus 30.3 %), but the risk of metabolic syndrome was higher in hypopituitary women than in controls (39.8 versus 28.5 %). In both sexes, the risks of central obesity and dyslipidemia were higher in the hypopituitary group than in the control group. Men had lower risks of hypertension and hyperglycemia in the hypopituitary group, which attenuated the risk of metabolic syndrome. Age greater than 40 years and obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m²) contributed to a higher risk of metabolic syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

The metabolic syndrome prevalence was higher in the hypopituitry group than in the control group in Korean women, and this was attributed to an increased risk of central obesity and dyslipidemia. Accordingly, early intervention to reduce metabolic syndrome needed in hypopituitary patients, i.e. women.

Higher incidence of morbidity in women than men with non-functioning pituitary adenoma: a Swedish nationwide study

OBJECTIVE

Increased mortality rates are found in women and young adults with non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs). This nationwide study aimed to investigate the burden of comorbidities in patients with NFPA and to examine whether gender influences the outcome.

DESIGN

NFPA patients were identified and followed-up from National Registries in Sweden. It was a nationwide, population-based study.

METHOD

Standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) for comorbidities with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Comorbidities were analysed in all patients, both patients with and without hypopituitarism.

RESULTS

Included in the analysis were 2795 patients (1502 men, 1293 women), diagnosed with NFPA between 1987 and 2011. Hypopituitarism was reported in 1500 patients (54%). Mean patient-years at risk per patient was 7 (range 0-25). Both men (SIR 2.2, 95% CI: 1.8-2.5; P<0.001) and women (2.9, 2.4-3.6; P<0.001) had a higher incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than the general population, with women having a higher incidence compared with men (P=0.02). The incidence of myocardial infarction was increased in women (1.7, 1.3-2.1; P<0.001), but not in men. Both men (1.3, 1.1-1.6; P=0.006) and women (2.3; 1.9-2.8; P<0.001) had an increased incidence of cerebral infarction, with women having a higher incidence than men (P<0.001). The incidence of sepsis was increased for both genders. The incidence of fractures was increased in women (1.8, 1.5-1.8; P<0.001), but not for men.

CONCLUSIONS

This nationwide study shows excessive morbidity due to T2DM, cerebral infarction and sepsis in all NFPA patients. Women had higher incidence of T2DM, myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction and fracture in comparison to both the general population and to men.

Low-dose hydrocortisone replacement is associated with improved arterial stiffness index and blood pressure dynamics in severely adrenocorticotrophin-deficient hypopituitary male patients

OBJECTIVE

Increased cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality in hypopituitary subjects may be linked to inappropriate glucocorticoid exposure; however, the pathophysiology remains unclear. We aimed to examine the effect of three commonly prescribed hydrocortisone (HC) regimens on vascular risk factors.

DESIGN

An open crossover study randomising ten hypopituitary men with severe adrenocorticotrophic hormone deficiency to three HC dose regimens: dose A (20mg mane and 10mg tarde), dose B (10mg mane and 10mg tarde) and dose C (10mg mane and 5mg tarde).

METHODS

Following 6 weeks on each regimen, participants underwent 24-h serum cortisol sampling, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) measurements, calculation of the Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index (AASI), oral glucose tolerance testing and fasting serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) sampling.

RESULTS

There were no differences in 24-h BP between dose regimens and controls; however, low-dose HC replacement (dose C) was associated with the lowest AASI, indicating a less stiff arterial tree (P<0.05) compared with the other dose regimens. Loss of the physiologic nocturnal BP dip was more common in higher HC replacement regimens, although only significant for dose B compared with dose C (P=0.03). Twenty per cent of patients had abnormal glucose tolerance, but this was unrelated to dose regimen. OPG correlated strongly with 24-h BP in those on dose A only (r=0.65, P=0.04).

CONCLUSION

Currently prescribed HC replacement doses do not result in significant differences in absolute BP levels or improvements in insulin sensitivity. However, lower HC doses may result in lower arterial stiffness and a more physiological nocturnal BP dip. Long-term studies are required to confirm these findings and evaluate their impact on vascular morbidity in this patient group.

The effects of pituitary and thyroid disorders on haemostasis: potential clinical implications

Disturbances of coagulation and fibrinolysis are usually multifactorial and growing evidence suggests that endocrinopathies modulate the haemostatic balance. The thrombotic alterations in endocrine disorders range from mild laboratory clotting abnormalities with little clinical significance to serious thrombotic and bleeding disorders directly related to hormonal disturbances. This literature review focuses on presenting the current data on the effects of thyroid and pituitary disorders on various parameters of the haemostatic system. With the exception of overt hypothyroidism which appears to cause a bleeding tendency, the rest of the endocrinopathies discussed in this review (subclinical hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, endogenous hypercortisolaemia, growth hormone deficiency, acromegaly, prolactinoma/hyperprolactinaemia and hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism) are associated with a hypercoagulable and hypofibrinolytic state, increasing the overall cardiovascular risk and thromboembolic potential in these patients. In most studies, the haemostatic abnormalities seen in endocrine disorders are usually reversible with successful treatment of the underlying condition and biochemical disease remission. High-quality studies on larger patient cohorts are needed to produce robust evidence on the effects of endocrine disorders and their therapeutic interventions on coagulation and fibrinolysis, as well as on the long-term mortality and morbidity outcomes in association with endocrine-related haemostatic imbalance. Given the rarity of some of the endocrine disorders, multicentre studies are required to achieve this target.

Mortality in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma is increased: systematic analysis of 546 cases with long follow-up

OBJECTIVE

Non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFAs) have a prevalence of 7-22/100,000 people. A significant number of patients suffer from morbidities related to the tumor, possible recurrence(s), and treatments utilized. Our aim was to assess mortality of patients with macroNFA and predictive factors.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study in a tertiary referral center in the UK.

METHODS

A total of 546 patients operated for a macroNFA between 1963 and 2011 were studied. Mortality data were retrieved through the National Health Service Central Register and hospital records and recorded as standardized mortality ratio (SMR). Mortality was estimated for the total and various subgroups with clinical follow-up data.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 8 years (range: 1 month-48.5 years). SMR was 3.6 (95% CI, 2.9-4.5), for those operated before 1990, 4.7 (95% CI, 2.7-7.6) and for those after 1990, 3.5 (95% CI, 2.8-4.4). Main causes of death were cardio/cerebrovascular (33.7%), infections (30.1%), and malignancy (28.9%). Cox regression analysis demonstrated that only age at diagnosis remained an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio 1.10; 95% CI, 1.07-1.13, P<0.001), whereas sex, presentation with acute apoplexy, extent of tumor removal, radiotherapy, recurrence, untreated GH deficiency, FSH/LH deficiency, ACTH deficiency, TSH deficiency, and treatment with desmopressin had no impact.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the improvement of treatments over the last three decades, the mortality of patients with NFAs in our series remains high. Apart from age, factors related with the management/outcome of the tumor are not independent predictors, and pituitary hormone deficits managed with the currently-used substitution protocols do not adversely affect mortality.

Treatment Factors That Influence Mortality in Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a rare condition characterized by excessive secretion of growth hormone (GH), which is almost always due to a pituitary adenoma. Acromegaly is associated with significant morbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiomyopathy, obstructive sleep apnoea, malignancy and musculoskeletal abnormalities. Acromegaly has also been associated with increased mortality in several retrospective studies. This review will focus on the epidemiological data relating to mortality rates in acromegaly, the relationship between acromegaly and malignancy, the role of GH and insulin-like growth factor-I in assessing the risk of future mortality, and the impact of radiotherapy and hypopituitarism on mortality.

Cardiovascular outcomes and conventional risk factors in non-diabetic adult patients with GH deficiency: A long-term retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To investigate the association between cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and cumulative CV events in patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) receiving GH replacement therapy (GHRT).

METHODS

53 non-diabetic adult GHD patients, aged 45.4±14.3years, 31 females, with a median follow up of 140months, were divided into two groups based on the presence (group A) or absence (group B) of systemic hypertension. Tertiles of age and LDL-cholesterol were considered as further potential prognosticators. Cumulative CV event rates were recorded and analyzed by Kaplan-Mayer method. Differences between patients with and without events were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients (32%) entered the group A and 36 (68%) the group B. A composite of fatal and non-fatal CV events occurred in 22.6% of patients, 47.1% in group A and 11% in group B (p=0.01), CV deaths in 3 patients (5.7%; annual death rate 0.49%), 2 of whom were in group A. At Kaplan-Mayer analysis, hypertension and age>55years were major prognosticators. The odds ratio was 7.1 (95% CI: 1.74-29.12, p<0.003) and 6.2 (95% CI: 1.54-25.04, p<0.006), respectively. LDL-cholesterol showed borderline statistical significance. Patients with CV events also had high prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy, left atrial enlargement and subclinical systolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, outcomes were mainly related to hypertension and age (partially to LDL-cholesterol), confirming that management of GHD patients must be inclusive of treatment of conventional risk factors, being as important as GHRT. Optimal blood pressure control is crucial when a target organ damage is present and in patients older than 55years.

The modulation of corticosteroid metabolism by hydrocortisone therapy in patients with hypopituitarism increases tissue glucocorticoid exposure

CONTEXT

Patients with hypopituitarism have increased morbidity and mortality. There is ongoing debate about the optimum glucocorticoid (GC) replacement therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of GC replacement in hypopituitarism on corticosteroid metabolism and its impact on body composition.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

We assessed the urinary corticosteroid metabolite profile (using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) and body composition (clinical parameters and full body DXA) of 53 patients (19 female, median age 46 years) with hypopituitarism (33 ACTH-deficient/20 ACTH-replete) (study A). The corticosteroid metabolite profile of ten patients with ACTH deficiency was then assessed prospectively in a cross over study using three hydrocortisone (HC) dosing regimens (20/10 mg, 10/10 mg and 10/5 mg) (study B) each for 6 weeks. 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1) activity was assessed by urinary THF+5α-THF/THE.

SETTING

Endocrine Centres within University Teaching Hospitals in the UK and Ireland.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Urinary corticosteroid metabolite profile and body composition assessment.

RESULTS

In study A, when patients were divided into three groups - patients not receiving HC and patients receiving HC≤20 mg/day or HC>20 mg/day - patients in the group receiving the highest daily dose of HC had significantly higher waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) than the ACTH replete group. They also had significantly elevated THF+5α-THF/THE (P=0.0002) and total cortisol metabolites (P=0.015). In study B, patients on the highest HC dose had significantly elevated total cortisol metabolites and all patients on HC had elevated THF+5α-THF/THE ratios when compared to controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In ACTH-deficient patients daily HC doses of >20 mg/day have increased WHR, THF+5α-THF/THE ratios and total cortisol metabolites. GC metabolism and induction of 11β-HSD1 may play a pivitol role in the development of the metabolically adverse hypopituitary phenotype.

Excess mortality associated with hypopituitarism in adults: a meta-analysis of observational studies

CONTEXT

Several previous observational studies showed an association between hypopituitarism and excess mortality. Reports on reduction of standard mortality ratio (SMR) with GH replacement have been published recently.

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis assessed studies reporting SMR to clarify mortality risk in hypopituitary adults and also the potential benefit conferred by GH replacement.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search was performed in Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library up to March 31, 2014.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies with or without GH replacement reporting SMR with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were included.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS

Patient characteristics, SMR data, and treatment outcomes were independently assessed by two authors, and with consensus from third author, studies were selected for analysis. Meta-analysis was performed in all studies together, and those without and with GH replacement separately, using the statistical package metafor in R.

RESULTS

Six studies reporting a total of 19 153 hypopituiatary adults with a follow-up duration of more than 99,000 person years were analyzed. Hypopituitarism was associated with an overall excess mortality (weighted SMR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.21-2.76) in adults. Female hypopituitary adults showed higher SMR compared with males (2.53 vs 1.71). Onset of hypopituitarism at a younger age was associated with higher SMR. GH replacement improved the mortality risk in hypopituitary adults that is comparable to the background population (SMR with GH replacement, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.05-1.24 vs SMR without GH, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.46-3.34). GH replacement conferred lower mortality benefit in hypopituitary women compared with men (SMR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.38-1.77 vs 0.95; 95% CI, 0.85-1.06).

LIMITATIONS

There was a potential selection bias of benefit of GH replacement from a post-marketing data necessitating further evidence from long-term randomized controlled trials.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypopituitarism may increase premature mortality in adults. Mortality benefit from GH replacement in hypopituitarism is less pronounced in women than men.

Excess mortality and morbidity in patients with craniopharyngioma, especially in patients with childhood onset: a population-based study in Sweden

CONTEXT

Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) in adults have been associated with excess mortality.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate mortality and morbidity in patients with childhood-onset and adult-onset CP.

METHODS

PATIENTS with CP were identified and followed in Swedish national health registries, 1987 through 2011. The inclusion criteria for the CP diagnosis were internally validated against patient records in 28% of the study population.

SETTINGS

This was a nationwide population-based study.

PATIENTS

A total of 307 patients (151 men and 156 women) were identified and included (mean follow-up, 9 years; range, 0-25 years). The inclusion criteria had a positive predictive value of 97% and a sensitivity of 92%.

INTERVENTION

There were no interventions.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the Swedish population as the reference.

RESULTS

During the study, 54 patients died compared with the expected number of 14.1, resulting in an SMR of 3.2 (2.2-4.7) for men and 4.9 (3.2-7.2) for women. PATIENTS with childhood-onset (n = 106) and adult-onset (n = 201) CP had SMRs of 17 (6.3-37) and 3.5 (2.6-4.6), respectively. PATIENTS with hypopituitarism (n = 250), diabetes insipidus (n = 110), and neither of these (n = 54) had SMRs of 4.3 (3.1-5.8), 6.1 (3.5-9.7), and 2.7 (1.4-4.6), respectively. The SMR due to cerebrovascular diseases was 5.1 (1.7-12). SIRs were 5.6 (3.8-8.0) for type 2 diabetes mellitus, 7.1 (5.0-9.9) for cerebral infarction, 0.7 (0.2-1.7) for myocardial infarction, 2.1 (1.4-3.0) for fracture, and 5.9 (3.4-9.4) for severe infection. The SIR for all malignant tumors was 1.3 (0.8-2.1).

CONCLUSIONS

This first nationwide population-based study of patients with CP demonstrated excess mortality that was especially marked in patients with childhood-onset disease and among women. Death due to cerebrovascular diseases was increased 5-fold. Hypopituitarism and diabetes insipidus were negative prognostic factors for mortality and morbidity. PATIENTS with CP had increased disease burden related to type 2 diabetes mellitus, cerebral infarction, fracture, and severe infection.

Effects of long-term growth hormone replacement in adults with growth hormone deficiency following cure of acromegaly: a KIMS analysis

CONTEXT

GH deficiency (GHD) may occur in adults with cured acromegaly (acroGHD).

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to examine the effectiveness and safety of GH replacement in acroGHD.

DESIGN

This study was a retrospective analysis of data from KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database).

SETTING

Data were extracted from a pharmaco-epidemiological survey of >16 000 GHD adults from 31 countries.

PATIENTS

The effectiveness population included 115 adults with acroGHD and 142 age-, gender-, and body mass index-matched GHD adults with nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) followed up to 5 years on GH. The safety population included 164 adults with acroGHD and 2469 with NFPA, all GH-replaced. Both acroGHD and NFPA were compared with several cohorts from the general population (including the World Health Organization Global Burden of Disease).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Outcome measures included quality of life (QoL-AGHDA), lipids, serious adverse events, and additional safety endpoints.

RESULTS

Median GH dose was 0.3 mg/d in acroGHD and NFPA at 5 years. There were comparable improvements in QoL-AGHDA and total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in acroGHD and NFPA. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased only in acroGHD. Cardiovascular mortality was increased in acroGHD vs NFPA (standardized mortality ratio = 3.03, P = .02). All-cause mortality was similar in acroGHD (ratio between observed/expected cases [95% confidence interval] = 1.32 [0.70-2.25]) and lower in NFPA [observed/expected = 0.58 [0.48-0.70]) in comparison with the general population. There was no difference in incidence of all cancers, benign or malignant brain tumors, or diabetes mellitus between acroGHD and NFPA.

CONCLUSIONS

GH replacement has comparable effects on quality of life and lipids in acroGHD and NFPA. Further investigation is needed to examine whether the increased cardiovascular mortality may be attributed to the history of previous GH excess in acroGHD.

High prevalence of metabolic syndrome features in patients previously treated for nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenoma

OBJECTIVE

Patients treated for nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenoma (NFMA) with suprasellar extension show disturbed sleep characteristics, possibly related to hypothalamic dysfunction. In addition to hypopituitarism, both structural hypothalamic damage and sleep restriction per se are associated with the metabolic syndrome. However, the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in patients with NFMA is not well established. Our objective was to study the prevalence and risk factors for (components of) the metabolic syndrome in patients treated for NFMA.

DESIGN

The metabolic syndrome (NCEP-ATP III criteria) was studied in an unselected cohort of 145 NFMA patients (aged 26-88yr, 44% female) in long-term remission after treatment, receiving adequate stable hormone replacement for any pituitary deficiencies. The results were compared to population data of 63,995 Dutch inhabitants by standardization (LifeLines cohort study).

RESULTS

NFMA patients showed increased risk for reduced HDL-cholesterol (SMR 1.59, 95% CI 1.13-2.11), increased triglyceride levels (SMR 2.31, 95% CI 1.78-2.90) and the metabolic syndrome (SMR 1.60, 95% CI 1.22-2.02), but not for increased blood pressure, waist circumference or hyperglycemia. Preoperative visual field defects independently affected the risk for increased blood pressure (OR 6.5, 95% CI 1.9-22.2), and hypopituitarism was associated with a body mass index - dependent risk for increased waist circumference (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.2) and the metabolic syndrome (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0-1.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients treated for NFMA are increased at risk for developing the metabolic syndrome, mainly due to decreased HDL-cholesterol and increased triglycerides. Risk factors included hypopituitarism and preoperative visual field defects. Hypothalamic dysfunction may explain the metabolic abnormalities, in addition to intrinsic imperfections of hormone replacement therapy. Additional research is required to explore the relation between derangements in circadian rhythmicity and metabolic syndrome in these patients.

Pituitary disease mortality: is it fiction?

During the last 20 years a tremendous improvement in the care of patients with pituitary tumors and of hypopituitarism has been achieved. If we resolve most of the possible causes of the increased cardiovascular disease and stroke mortality a normal survival is expected in these patients. Recently, a large population based study showed a decline in the risk of non-fatal stroke and of non-fatal cardiac events in GH deficient patients. This improvement was achieved by complete hormone replacement, including long term GH replacement, together with prescription of cardio protective drugs. If we follow the latest achievements in pituitary imaging, surgery techniques, hormone substitutions, cardio protective medications, we would expect a normal longevity in these patients. This review will focus on; (1) pituitary insufficiencies and hormone substitutions, (2) modes of cranial radiotherapy, and (3) new techniques in the surgery of a pituitary adenoma.

Updates in growth hormone treatment and mortality

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the literature with regard to mortality in patients with hypopituitarism with a focus on the role of growth hormone (GH) deficiency and therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Mortality is increased in hypopituitarism, particularly in female patients. In recent years mortality rates appear to be trending downwards towards that of the general population. Recent studies from retrospective or postmarketing surveillance studies have suggested that patients who receive GH therapy may not have increased mortality. Recent studies regarding mortality in paediatric patients treated with GH are conflicting and this area needs further study.

SUMMARY

There are several important limitations of available data regarding mortality in hypopituitarism and even more so in the impact of GH therapy, which need to be taken into account when interpreting the available data. The data regarding mortality in patients treated with GH as children is an area of much debate and will need further studies to clarify, given the conflicting reports in recent studies.

Deaths among adult patients with hypopituitarism: hypocortisolism during acute stress, and de novo malignant brain tumors contribute to an increased mortality

CONTEXT

Patients with hypopituitarism have an increased standardized mortality rate. The basis for this has not been fully clarified.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate in detail the cause of death in a large cohort of patients with hypopituitarism subjected to long-term follow-up.

DESIGN AND METHODS

All-cause and cause-specific mortality in 1286 Swedish patients with hypopituitarism prospectively monitored in KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database) 1995-2009 were compared to general population data in the Swedish National Cause of Death Registry. In addition, events reported in KIMS, medical records, and postmortem reports were reviewed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated, with stratification for gender, attained age, and calendar year during follow-up.

RESULTS

An excess mortality was found, 120 deaths vs 84.3 expected, SMR 1.42 (95% confidence interval: 1.18-1.70). Infections, brain cancer, and sudden death were associated with significantly increased SMRs (6.32, 9.40, and 4.10, respectively). Fifteen patients, all ACTH-deficient, died from infections. Eight of these patients were considered to be in a state of adrenal crisis in connection with death (medical reports and post-mortem examinations). Another 8 patients died from de novo malignant brain tumors, 6 of which had had a benign pituitary lesion at baseline. Six of these 8 subjects had received prior radiation therapy.

CONCLUSION

Two important causes of excess mortality were identified: first, adrenal crisis in response to acute stress and intercurrent illness; second, increased risk of a late appearance of de novo malignant brain tumors in patients who previously received radiotherapy. Both of these causes may be in part preventable by changes in the management of pituitary disease.

Epidemiology, mortality rate and survival in a homogeneous population of hypopituitary patients

INTRODUCTION

Hypopituitarism is associated with higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and premature death. Furthermore, some clinical and therapeutic features of hypopituitarism have been associated with a worse prognosis.

OBJECTIVE

We reviewed, retrospectively, a large series of adult patients with hypopituitarism using stringent epidemiological criteria. Prevalence, association with cardiovascular risk factors, mortality and survival have been analysed.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Two hundred and nine adult hypopituitary patients (56·9% females) from a population of 405 218 inhabitants, followed for 10 years.

RESULTS

Prevalence of hypopituitarism at the end of the study was 37·5 cases/100 000 inhabitants. Incidence of hypopituitarism was 2·07 cases/100 000 inhabitants and year. Thirty-two patients died during the period of the study. Standardized mortality rate (SMR) was 8·05, higher in males (8·92 vs 7·34) and in younger patients (84·93 vs 5·26). Diagnosis of acromegaly (P = 0·033), previous radiotherapy (P = 0·02), higher BMI (P = 0·04), diabetes mellitus (P = 0·03) and cancer (P < 0·0001) were associated with mortality. A lower survival was associated with older age at diagnosis, nontumoural causes, previous radiotherapy, diabetes mellitus with poor metabolic control and malignant disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of hypopituitarism was 37·5 cases/100 000 inhabitants, and annual incidence was 2·07 cases/100 000 inhabitants. SMR was 8 times higher in hypopituitarism than in general population and was also higher in males and younger patients. Reduced survival was significantly related to cancer, nontumoural causes of hypopituitarism, older age at diagnosis, previous radiotherapy and diabetes mellitus with poor metabolic control.

Glucocorticoid replacement and mortality in patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma

CONTEXT

Current treatment guidelines generally suggest using lower and weight-adjusted glucocorticoid replacement doses in patients with insufficiency of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Although data in patients with acromegaly revealed a positive association between glucocorticoid dose and mortality, no comparable results exist in patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPA).

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to assess whether higher glucocorticoid replacement doses are associated with increased mortality in patients with NFPA and HPA axis insufficiency.

DESIGN, PARTICIPANTS, AND INTERVENTION

We included 105 patients receiving glucocorticoid replacement after pituitary surgery due to NFPA and concomitant HPA axis insufficiency. Patients were grouped according weight-adapted and absolute hydrocortisone (HC) replacement doses. Mortality was assessed using Kaplan-Meier methodology as well as multivariable Cox regression models.

SETTING

This was a retrospective analysis conducted at a tertiary referral center.

MAIN OUTCOME

We evaluated overall mortality based on HC replacement doses.

RESULTS

Average age at inclusion was 58.9±14.8 yr, and mean follow-up was 12.7±9.4 yr. The groups did not differ according to age, follow-up time, pattern of hypopituitarism, and comorbidities. Kaplan-Meier survival probabilities differed significantly when comparing individuals with differing weight-adjusted HC dose (P=0.001) as well as absolute HC dose (5-19, 20-29, and ≥30 mg, P=0.009). Hazard ratios for mortality increased from 1 (0.05-0.24 mg/kg) to 2.62 (0.25-0.34 mg/kg) to 4.56 (≥0.35 mg/kg, P for trend=0.006) and from 1 (5-19 mg) to 2.03 (20-29 mg) to 4 (≥30 mg, P for trend=0.029), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Higher glucocorticoid replacement doses are associated with increased overall mortality in patients with NFPA and insufficiency of HPA axis. This further substantiates the importance of a balanced and adjusted glucocorticoid replacement therapy in these patients.

Overall and cause-specific mortality in GH-deficient adults on GH replacement

OBJECTIVE

Hypopituitarism is associated with an increased mortality rate but the reasons underlying this have not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate mortality and associated factors within a large GH-replaced population of hypopituitary patients.

DESIGN

In KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database) 13,983 GH-deficient patients with 69,056 patient-years of follow-up were available.

METHODS

This study analysed standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) by Poisson regression. IGF1 SDS was used as an indicator of adequacy of GH replacement. Statistical significance was set to P<0.05.

RESULTS

All-cause mortality was 13% higher compared with normal population rates (SMR, 1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.24). Significant associations were female gender, younger age at follow-up, underlying diagnosis of Cushing's disease, craniopharyngioma and aggressive tumour and presence of diabetes insipidus. After controlling for confounding factors, there were statistically significant negative associations between IGF1 SDS after 1, 2 and 3 years of GH replacement and SMR. For cause-specific mortality there was a negative association between 1-year IGF1 SDS and SMR for deaths from cardiovascular diseases (P=0.017) and malignancies (P=0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

GH-replaced patients with hypopituitarism demonstrated a modest increase in mortality rate; this appears lower than that previously published in GH-deficient patients. Factors associated with increased mortality included female gender, younger attained age, aetiology and lower IGF1 SDS during therapy. These data indicate that GH replacement in hypopituitary adults with GH deficiency may be considered a safe treatment.

Optimizing glucocorticoid replacement therapy in severely adrenocorticotropin-deficient hypopituitary male patients

BACKGROUND

The optimal replacement regimen of hydrocortisone in adults with severe ACTH deficiency remains unknown. Management strategies vary from treatment with 15-30 mg or higher in daily divided doses, reflecting the paucity of prospective data on the adequacy of different glucocorticoid regimens.

OBJECTIVE

Primarily to define the hydrocortisone regimen which results in a 24 h cortisol profile that most closely resembles that of healthy controls and secondarily to assess the impact on quality of life (QoL).

DESIGN

Ten male hypopituitary patients with severe ACTH deficiency (basal cortisol <100 nm and peak response to stimulation <400 nm) were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, crossover study of 3 hydrocortisone dose regimens. Following 6 weeks of each regimen patients underwent 24 h serum cortisol sampling and QoL assessment with the Short Form 36 (SF36) and the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) questionnaires. Free cortisol was calculated using Coolen's equation. All results were compared to those of healthy, matched controls.

RESULTS

Corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG) was significantly lower across all dose regimens compared to controls (P < 0·05). The lower dose regimen C (10 mg mane/5 mg tarde) produced a 24 h free cortisol profile (FCP) which most closely resembled that of controls. Both regimen A(20 mg mane/10 mg tarde) and B(10 mg mane/10 mg tarde) produced supraphysiological post-absorption peaks. There was no significant difference in QoL in patients between the three regimens, however energy level was significantly lower across all dose regimens compared to controls (P < 0·001).

CONCLUSIONS

The lower dose of hydrocortisone (10 mg/5 mg) produces a more physiological cortisol profile, without compromising QoL, compared to higher doses still used in clinical practice. This may have important implications in these patients, known to have excess cardiovascular mortality.

Mortality in patients with pituitary disease

Pituitary disease is associated with increased mortality predominantly due to vascular disease. Control of cortisol secretion and GH hypersecretion (and cardiovascular risk factor reduction) is key in the reduction of mortality in patients with Cushing's disease and acromegaly, retrospectively. For patients with acromegaly, the role of IGF-I is less clear-cut. Confounding pituitary hormone deficiencies such as gonadotropins and particularly ACTH deficiency (with higher doses of hydrocortisone replacement) may have a detrimental effect on outcome in patients with pituitary disease. Pituitary radiotherapy is a further factor that has been associated with increased mortality (particularly cerebrovascular). Although standardized mortality ratios in pituitary disease are falling due to improved treatment, mortality for many conditions are still elevated above that of the general population, and therefore further measures are needed. Craniopharyngioma patients have a particularly increased risk of mortality as a result of the tumor itself and treatment to control tumor growth; this is a key area for future research in order to optimize the outcome for these patients.