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Hacioglu A, Karaca Z, Uysal S, Ozkaya HM, Kadioglu P, Selcukbiricik OS, Gul N, Yarman S, Koksalan D, Selek A, Canturk Z, Cetinarslan B, Corapcioglu D, Sahin M, Sah Unal FT, Babayeva A, Akturk M, Ciftci S, Piskinpasa H, Dokmetas HS, Dokmetas M, Sahin O, Eraydın A, Fenkci S, Ozturk S, Akarsu E, Omma T, Erkan B, Burhan S, Pehlivan Koroglu E, Saygili F, Kilic Kan E, Atmaca A, Elbuken G, Alphan Uc Z, Gorar S, Hekimsoy Z, Pekkolay Z, Bostan H, Bayram F, Yorulmaz G, Sener SY, Turan K, Celik O, Dogruel H, Ertorer E, Turhan Iyidir O, Topaloglu O, Cansu GB, Unluhizarci K, Kelestimur F. Evaluation and follow-up of patients diagnosed with hypophysitis: a cohort study. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 191:312-322. [PMID: 39186535 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvae101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Primary hypophysitis might be challenging to diagnose, and there is a lack of evidence regarding optimal treatment strategies due to rarity of the disease. We aim to investigate the clinical features and compare the outcomes of different management strategies of primary hypophysitis in a large group of patients recruited on a nationwide basis. DESIGN A retrospective observational study. METHODS The demographic, clinical, and radiologic features and follow-up data were collected in study protocol templates and analyzed. RESULTS One hundred and thirteen patients (78.8% female, median age: 36 years) were included. Lymphocytic (46.7%) and granulomatous hypophysitis (35.6%) were the prevailing subtypes out of 45 patients diagnosed after pathologic investigations. Headache (75.8%) was the most common symptom, and central hypogonadism (49.5%) was the most common hormone insufficiency. Of the patients, 52.2% were clinically observed without interventions, 18.6% were started on glucocorticoid therapy, and 29.2% underwent surgery at presentation. Headache, suprasellar extension, and chiasmal compression were more common among glucocorticoid-treated patients than who were observed. Cox regression analysis revealed higher hormonal and radiologic improvement rates in the glucocorticoid-treated group than observation group (hazard ratio, 4.60; 95% CI, 1.62-12.84 and HR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.40-6.68, respectively). The main indication for surgery was the inability to exclude a pituitary adenoma in the presence of compression symptoms, with a recurrence rate of 9%. CONCLUSION The rate of spontaneous improvement might justify observation in mild cases. Glucocorticoids proved superior to observation in terms of hormonal and radiologic improvements. Surgery may not be curative and might be considered in indeterminate, treatment-resistant, or severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysa Hacioglu
- Department of Endocrinology, Erciyes University Medical School, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
| | - Zuleyha Karaca
- Department of Endocrinology, Erciyes University Medical School, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
| | - Serhat Uysal
- Department of Endocrinology, Cerrahpasa University Medical School-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul 34098, Türkiye
| | - Hande Mefkure Ozkaya
- Department of Endocrinology, Cerrahpasa University Medical School-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul 34098, Türkiye
| | - Pınar Kadioglu
- Department of Endocrinology, Cerrahpasa University Medical School-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul 34098, Türkiye
| | | | - Nurdan Gul
- Department of Endocrinology, Istanbul University Medical School, Istanbul 34093, Türkiye
| | - Sema Yarman
- Department of Endocrinology, Istanbul University Medical School, Istanbul 34093, Türkiye
| | - Damla Koksalan
- Department of Endocrinology, Kocaeli University Medical School, Kocaeli 41001, Türkiye
| | - Alev Selek
- Department of Endocrinology, Kocaeli University Medical School, Kocaeli 41001, Türkiye
| | - Zeynep Canturk
- Department of Endocrinology, Kocaeli University Medical School, Kocaeli 41001, Türkiye
| | - Berrin Cetinarslan
- Department of Endocrinology, Kocaeli University Medical School, Kocaeli 41001, Türkiye
| | - Demet Corapcioglu
- Department of Endocrinology, Ankara University Medical School, Ankara 06230, Türkiye
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Department of Endocrinology, Ankara University Medical School, Ankara 06230, Türkiye
| | - Fatma Tugce Sah Unal
- Department of Endocrinology, Ankara University Medical School, Ankara 06230, Türkiye
| | - Afruz Babayeva
- Department of Endocrinology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500, Türkiye
| | - Mujde Akturk
- Department of Endocrinology, Gazi University Medical School, Ankara 06500, Türkiye
| | - Sema Ciftci
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul 34180, Türkiye
| | - Hamide Piskinpasa
- Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul 34180, Türkiye
| | - Hatice Sebile Dokmetas
- Department of Endocrinology, Cemil Tascıoglu City Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul 34384, Türkiye
| | - Meric Dokmetas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Medical School, Istanbul 34214, Türkiye
| | - Onur Sahin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Medical School, Istanbul 34214, Türkiye
| | - Ayten Eraydın
- Department of Endocrinology, Pamukkale University Medical School, Denizli 20070, Türkiye
| | - Semin Fenkci
- Department of Endocrinology, Pamukkale University Medical School, Denizli 20070, Türkiye
| | - Sadettin Ozturk
- Department of Endocrinology, Gaziantep University Medical School, Gaziantep 27070, Türkiye
| | - Ersin Akarsu
- Department of Endocrinology, Gaziantep University Medical School, Gaziantep 27070, Türkiye
| | - Tulay Omma
- Department of Endocrinology, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara 06230, Türkiye
| | - Buruc Erkan
- Department of Endocrinology, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul 34480, Türkiye
| | - Sebnem Burhan
- Department of Endocrinology, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul 34480, Türkiye
| | | | - Fusun Saygili
- Department of Endocrinology, Ege University Medical School, Izmir 35100, Türkiye
| | - Elif Kilic Kan
- Department of Endocrinology, Ondokuz Mayis University Medical School, Samsun 55200, Türkiye
| | - Aysegul Atmaca
- Department of Endocrinology, Ondokuz Mayis University Medical School, Samsun 55200, Türkiye
| | - Gulsah Elbuken
- Department of Endocrinology, Tekirdag Namik Kemal University Medical School, Tekirdag 59100, Türkiye
| | - Ziynet Alphan Uc
- Department of Endocrinology, Usak Research and Training Hospital, Usak 64100, Türkiye
| | - Suheyla Gorar
- Department of Endocrinology, Antalya Training and Research Hospital, Antalya 07100, Türkiye
| | - Zeliha Hekimsoy
- Department of Endocrinology, Celal Bayar University Medical School, Manisa 45030, Türkiye
| | - Zafer Pekkolay
- Department of Endocrinology, Dicle University Medical School, Diyarbakir 21280, Türkiye
| | - Hayri Bostan
- Department of Endocrinology, Diskapi Yildirim Beyazit Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara 06110, Türkiye
| | - Fahri Bayram
- Department of Endocrinology, Erciyes University Medical School, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
| | - Goknur Yorulmaz
- Department of Endocrinology, Osmangazi University Medical School, Eskisehir 26040, Türkiye
| | - Selcuk Yusuf Sener
- Department of Endocrinology, Maltepe Medical Park Hospital, Istanbul 34846, Türkiye
| | - Kubra Turan
- Department of Endocrinology, Yildirim Beyazit University Medical School, Ankara 06800, Türkiye
| | - Ozlem Celik
- Department of Endocrinology, Acibadem University Medical School, Istanbul 34750, Türkiye
| | - Hakan Dogruel
- Department of Endocrinology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Türkiye
| | - Eda Ertorer
- Department of Endocrinology, Baskent University Medical School, Adana Hospital, Adana 01250, Türkiye
| | - Ozlem Turhan Iyidir
- Department of Endocrinology, Baskent University Medical School, Ankara Hospital, Ankara 06490, Türkiye
| | - Omercan Topaloglu
- Department of Endocrinology, Bulent Ecevit University Medical School, Zonguldak 67630, Türkiye
| | - Guven Baris Cansu
- Department of Endocrinology, Kutahya Health Science University, Kutahya 43100, Türkiye
| | - Kursad Unluhizarci
- Department of Endocrinology, Erciyes University Medical School, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
| | - Fahrettin Kelestimur
- Department of Endocrinology, Yeditepe University Medical School, Istanbul 34718, Türkiye
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Corsello A, Paragliola RM, Salvatori R. Diagnosing and treating the elderly individual with hypopituitarism. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024; 25:575-597. [PMID: 38150092 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-023-09870-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Hypopituitarism in the elderly is an underestimated condition mainly due to the non-specific presentation that can be attributed to the effects of aging and the presence of comorbidities. Diagnosis and treatment of hypopituitarism often represent a challenging task and this is even more significant in the elderly. Diagnosis can be insidious due to the physiological changes occurring with aging that complicate the interpretation of hormonal investigations, and the need to avoid some provocative tests that carry higher risks of side effects in this population. Treatment of hypopituitarism has generally the goal to replace the hormonal deficiencies to restore a physiological balance as close as possible to that of healthy individuals but in the elderly this must be balanced with the risks of over-replacement and worsening of comorbidities. Moreover, the benefit of some hormonal replacement therapies in the elderly, including sex hormones and growth hormone, remains controversial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Corsello
- Unità di Chirurgia Endocrina, Ospedale Isola Tiberina - Gemelli Isola, 00186, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Paragliola
- Unicamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Salvatori
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, and Pituitary Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 2187, USA.
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Menotti S, Giampietro A, Raia S, Veleno M, Angelini F, Tartaglione T, Gaudino S, Doglietto F, De Marinis L, Pontecorvi A, Bianchi A, Chiloiro S. Unveiling the Etiopathogenic Spectrum of Hypophysitis: A Narrative Review. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1210. [PMID: 37623461 PMCID: PMC10455260 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13081210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypophysitis, a rare inflammatory disorder of the pituitary gland, has seen an uptick in reported cases in recent years. Our objective is to summarize the most recent research on the etiopathogenesis, molecular mechanisms, and genetics of both primary and secondary hypophysitis. Primary autoimmune hypophysitis (PAH): During the acute phase of the disease, the pituitary gland in enlarged due to the infiltration of T and B lymphocytes. The chronic phase is characterized by progressive and irreversible pituitary atrophy. APA may play a role in the management, diagnosis, and prognosis of PAH. Specific autoantibodies such as anti-GH, anti-PIT-1, and anti-T-PIT have been found in patients with hypophysitis and hypopituitarism. A recent study suggested that a mechanism of escaping clonal deletion and mounting an immune response against self antigens can explain the unusual nature of the immune response observed in PAH patients. A cytokine array shows the presence of gamma-interferon and interleukin-17. Patients carrying mutations in the PIT1 or PROP1 genes may present PAH. Individuals carrying the HLA DQ8 haplotype are four times more likely to develop PAH. Immune checkpoint inhibitors induce hypophysitis (IIHs): IIHs is an increasingly frequent toxicity of in patients on treatment with inhibitors targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death-1 (PD-1). ICIs inhibit the CTLA-4 pathway, leading to overactivation of T lymphocytes. The binding of PD-1/PD-L1 suppresses the activity of T cells, promotes the conversion of T-helpers into T-regulatory cells, and activates pro-survival signaling pathways in cancer cells. Cytokines play a crucial role in IIHs. B-cell infiltration has been observed in IIHs, suggesting that antibody-mediated pituitary injury may contribute. Genetic polymorphisms of CTLA-4 and PD-1 genes can increase the risk of IIHs. HLA alleles may also be involved in the onset of IIHs; this HLA association presents a possible alternative mechanistic hypothesis. IIHs may also be linked to a paraneoplastic syndrome triggered by ectopic expression of pituitary specific antigens. SARS-CoV-2-related hypophysitis: Recently, the literature has reported occurrences of hypophysitis associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus; long COVID-19 may also present as infundibulo-neuro-hypophysitis. The virus enters the central nervous system because of its distinct interaction with angiotensin-converting enzyme receptors via spike proteins binding the capillary endothelium, and it directly damages the pituitary cells. The effect of SARS-CoV-2 can occur indirectly through inflammation and the release of cytokines. The exact mechanism remains ambiguous. The available data on endocrine complications associated with the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine are scant. Nonetheless, isolated cases of hypophysitis have been documented. Treatment of hypophysitis: Glucocorticoids are the cornerstone in managing primary hypophysitis, given their targeted action on inflammation. A better understanding of the etiopathogenesis and molecular mechanism of hypophysitis can lead to more effective and personalized treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Menotti
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Antonella Giampietro
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Salvatore Raia
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Miriam Veleno
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Flavia Angelini
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Tommaso Tartaglione
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
- Department of Radiodiagnostic, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Gaudino
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
- Department of Radiodiagnostic, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Doglietto
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura De Marinis
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Antonio Bianchi
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
| | - Sabrina Chiloiro
- Pituitary Unit, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.); (A.G.); (S.R.); (M.V.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (A.P.); (S.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (T.T.); (S.G.); (F.D.)
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Guerrero-Pérez F, Marengo AP, Vilarrasa N, Vidal N, Ruiz-Roig N, Sánchez-Fernández JJ, Torres-Díaz A, Sanmillán JL, Pérez-Maraver M, Villabona C. Xanthogranuloma of the sellar region: a systematic review. Hormones (Athens) 2023; 22:199-210. [PMID: 36695986 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-023-00432-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of xanthogranuloma (XG) of the sellar region comes from short series or single cases. We performed a systematic review, using the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, eLibrary, and BIOSIS Preview databases, of all cases reported from 2000 to the present. We also describe one unreported patient treated in our institution. A search of the literature revealed that of 71 patients 50.7% were male and that mean age at diagnosis was 34.7 ± 19.2 years old. Median time from clinical onset until diagnosis was 7 (3-21) months. Hypopituitarism (70.4%), visual disorders (64.7%), headache (53.5%), and polyuria-polydipsia (28.2%) were the most common symptoms. On MRI, median tumor size was 20 (16-29) mm, while 71.8% were sellar/suprasellar and less frequently exclusively suprasellar (15.5%) or sellar (12.7%). On T1-weighted imaging, XG was hyperintense in 76.3% of patients, while it showed variable appearance on T2-weighted imaging. The tumor showed cystic features in 50.7%, gadolinium enhancement in 45.1%, and calcification in 22.5% of patients. All patients underwent surgery (77.4% transphenoidal approach and 18.3% craniotomy), with hypopituitarism (56.4%), diabetes insipidus (34.5%), and visual defects (7.3%) being the most common complications. Total/subtotal resection was achieved in 93.5%, while the tumor was partially removed in 6.6%. Median follow-up was 24 (6-55) months and no tumor recurrence or remnant growth was reported in 97.5% of cases. In conclusion, XG affects the younger population, manifested by hormonal deficit and mass effect symptoms. Surgery is safe and offers excellent outcomes, though hypopituitarism is frequent post-surgery. Tumor recurrence or remnant growth is rare and radiological surveillance is a good option for patients with remnant lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Guerrero-Pérez
- Department of Endocrinology, Bellvitge University Hospital-Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Carrer de la Feixa Llarga, s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Nuria Vilarrasa
- Department of Endocrinology, Bellvitge University Hospital-Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Carrer de la Feixa Llarga, s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERDEM-CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noemi Vidal
- Department of Pathology, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuro-Oncology Unit-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Ruiz-Roig
- Department of Pathology, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan José Sánchez-Fernández
- Institut de Diagnòstic per la Imatge, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Torres-Díaz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Luis Sanmillán
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Pérez-Maraver
- Department of Endocrinology, Bellvitge University Hospital-Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Carrer de la Feixa Llarga, s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERDEM-CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Villabona
- Department of Endocrinology, Bellvitge University Hospital-Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Carrer de la Feixa Llarga, s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907, Barcelona, Spain
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Das L, Dutta P. Approach to a case with an unusual cause of hypopituitarism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 108:1488-1504. [PMID: 36573291 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hypopituitarism refers to insufficiency of one or more hormones of the pituitary and can be due to myriad causes. The clinical and radiological spectrum of the condition is heterogeneous, based on the age, gender, clinical setting and/or other past medical history. Hypopituitarism includes central hypocortisolism, hypothyroidism, hypogonadism and growth hormone deficiency. Both hypo- and hyperprolactinemia can be associated with hypopituitarism, with low prolactin signifying more extensive pituitary damage. Posterior pituitary insufficiency (arginine vasopressin deficiency), occurs either in isolation or with anterior pituitary hormone deficiency. Clinical symptomatology of hypopituitarism is usually non-specific and insidious in onset and progression. Overall, the most common cause of hypopituitarism is a pituitary adenoma and/or its management (surgery, radiotherapy, pharmacotherapy or a combination of these). However, it is this subset of patients which is more likely to be identified and managed timely, possibly alleviating the premature mortality associated with hypopituitarism. What is more challenging is the recognition of hypopituitarism in less common settings, which may be either due to direct involvement of the pituitary (infection, traumatic brain injury, or infiltrative causes) or indirectly as a consequence of the primary process (thalassemia, vasculotoxic snakebite, subarachnoid hemorrhage). These entities are often under-recognised, and increased awareness can help in greater recognition of the problem burden. Further, pituitary insufficiency in most of these settings is dynamic, which may progress, or rarely, show recovery of function. This renders complexity to the problem, but makes it even more imperative to suspect, screen and appropriately manage patients with less common causes of hypopituitarism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza Das
- Department of Endocrinology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh
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Hataya Y, Okubo M, Hakata T, Fujimoto K, Iwakura T, Matsuoka N. Clinical characteristics of patients with unexplainable hypothalamic disorder diagnosed by the corticotropin-releasing hormone challenge test: a retrospective study. BMC Endocr Disord 2022; 22:312. [PMID: 36494805 PMCID: PMC9733005 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-022-01237-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) challenge test can distinguish the disorders of the hypothalamus from those of the pituitary. However, the pathophysiology of hypothalamic disorder (HD) has not been fully understood. This study aimed to elucidate the clinical characteristics of patients with unexplainable HD, diagnosed by the CRH challenge test. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent the CRH challenge test. Patients were categorized into four groups as follows: patients with peak serum cortisol ≥18 μg/dL were assigned to the normal response (NR) group (n = 18), among patients with peak serum cortisol < 18 μg/dL and peak adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) increase ≥two-fold, patients without obvious background pathology were assigned to the unexplainable-HD group (n = 18), whereas patients with obvious background pathology were assigned to the explainable-HD group (n = 38), and patients with peak serum cortisol < 18 μg/dL and peak ACTH increase <two-fold were assigned to the pituitary disorder (PD) group (n = 15). Inter-group comparisons were performed based on clinical characteristics. RESULTS In the CRH challenge test, the peak plasma ACTH levels were significantly lower in the unexplainable-HD group than in the NR group, despite more than two-fold increase compared to basal levels. The increase in serum cortisol was significantly higher in the unexplainable-HD group than in the explainable-HD and PD groups. Although patients in the unexplainable-HD group showed a clear ACTH response in the insulin tolerance test, some patients had peak serum cortisol levels of < 18 μg/dL. Furthermore, attenuated diurnal variations and low normal levels of urinary free cortisol were observed. Most patients in the unexplainable-HD group were young women with chronic fatigue. However, supplementation with oral hydrocortisone at physiological doses reduced fatigue only in some patients. CONCLUSIONS Patients with unexplainable HD diagnosed by the CRH challenge test had hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction and some patients had mild central adrenal insufficiency. Hydrocortisone supplementation reduced fatigue only in some patients, suggesting that HPA axis dysfunction may be a physiological adaptation. Further investigation of these patients may help elucidate the pathophysiology of myalgic encephalitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Hataya
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1, Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.
| | - Marie Okubo
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1, Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Takuro Hakata
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1, Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Kawaharacho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Kanta Fujimoto
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1, Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Toshio Iwakura
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1, Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Naoki Matsuoka
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1, Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
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Türe U, Sav A, Kelestimur F. Letter to the Editor From Kelestimur et al.: "Hypophysitis, the Growing Spectrum of a Rare Pituitary Disease". J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e2640-e2641. [PMID: 35259231 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ugur Türe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yeditepe University, Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aydın Sav
- Department of Pathology, Yeditepe University, Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fahrettin Kelestimur
- Department of Endocrinology, Yeditepe University, Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey
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Barnabei A, Corsello A, Paragliola RM, Iannantuono GM, Falzone L, Corsello SM, Torino F. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors as a Threat to the Hypothalamus-Pituitary Axis: A Completed Puzzle. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041057. [PMID: 35205804 PMCID: PMC8870574 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) prolong the survival in an increasing number of patients affected by several malignancies, but at the cost of new toxicities related to their mechanisms of action, autoimmunity. Endocrine toxicity frequently occurs in patients on ICI, but endocrine dysfunctions differ based on the ICI-subclass, as follows: agents targeting the CTLA4-receptor often induce hypophysitis and rarely thyroid dysfunction, which is the opposite for agents targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Recently, few cases of central diabetes insipidus have been reported as an adverse event induced by both ICI-subclasses, either in the context of anterior hypophysitis or as selective damage to the posterior pituitary or in the context of hypothalamitis. These new occurrences demonstrate, for the first time, that ICI-induced autoimmunity may involve any tract of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. However, the related pathogenic mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Similarly, the data explaining the endocrine system susceptibility to primary and ICI-induced autoimmunity are still scarce. Since ICI clinical indications are expected to expand in the near future, ICI-induced autoimmunity to the hypothalamic-pituitary axis presents as a unique in vivo model that could help to clarify the pathogenic mechanisms underlying both the dysfunction induced by ICI to the hypothalamus-pituitary axis and primary autoimmune diseases affecting the same axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Barnabei
- Endocrinology Unit, P.O.—S. Spirito in Sassia, ASL Roma 1, Lungotevere in Sassia 1, I-00193 Rome, Italy;
| | - Andrea Corsello
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore-Fondazione Policlinico “Gemelli” IRCCS, Largo Gemelli 8, I-00168 Rome, Italy; (A.C.); (R.M.P.); (S.M.C.)
| | - Rosa Maria Paragliola
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore-Fondazione Policlinico “Gemelli” IRCCS, Largo Gemelli 8, I-00168 Rome, Italy; (A.C.); (R.M.P.); (S.M.C.)
| | - Giovanni Maria Iannantuono
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, I-00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luca Falzone
- Epidemiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori ‘Fondazione G. Pascale’, I-80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Maria Corsello
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore-Fondazione Policlinico “Gemelli” IRCCS, Largo Gemelli 8, I-00168 Rome, Italy; (A.C.); (R.M.P.); (S.M.C.)
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro, 8, I-00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Torino
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, I-00133 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-062-090-8190
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Langlois F, Varlamov EV, Fleseriu M. Hypophysitis, the Growing Spectrum of a Rare Pituitary Disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:10-28. [PMID: 34528683 PMCID: PMC8684465 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Hypophysitis is defined as inflammation of the pituitary gland that is primary or secondary to a local or systemic process. Differential diagnosis is broad (including primary tumors, metastases, and lympho-proliferative diseases) and multifaceted. Patients with hypophysitis typically present with headaches, some degree of anterior and/or posterior pituitary dysfunction, and enlargement of pituitary gland and/or stalk, as determined by imaging. Most hypophysitis causes are autoimmune, but other etiologies include inflammation secondary to sellar tumors or cysts, systemic diseases, and infection or drug-induced causes. Novel pathologies such as immunoglobulin G4-related hypophysitis, immunotherapy-induced hypophysitis, and paraneoplastic pituitary-directed autoimmunity are also included in a growing spectrum of this rare pituitary disease. Typical magnetic resonance imaging reveals stalk thickening and homogenous enlargement of the pituitary gland; however, imaging is not always specific. Diagnosis can be challenging, and ultimately, only a pituitary biopsy can confirm hypophysitis type and rule out other etiologies. A presumptive diagnosis can be made often without biopsy. Detailed history and clinical examination are essential, notably for signs of underlying etiology with systemic manifestations. Hormone replacement and, in selected cases, careful observation is advised with imaging follow-up. High-dose glucocorticoids are initiated mainly to help reduce mass effect. A response may be observed in all auto-immune etiologies, as well as in lymphoproliferative diseases, and, as such, should not be used for differential diagnosis. Surgery may be necessary in some cases to relieve mass effect and allow a definite diagnosis. Immunosuppressive therapy and radiation are sometimes also necessary in resistant cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Langlois
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Estrie - Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elena V Varlamov
- Departments of Medicine (Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition) and Neurological Surgery, and Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine (Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition) and Neurological Surgery, and Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Correspondence: Maria Fleseriu, MD, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code CH8N, 3303 S Bond Ave, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA.
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Barnabei A, Strigari L, Corsello A, Paragliola RM, Iannantuono GM, Salvatori R, Corsello SM, Torino F. Grading Central Diabetes Insipidus Induced by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Challenging Task. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:840971. [PMID: 35388297 PMCID: PMC8978963 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.840971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Central diabetes insipidus (CDI) is a rare endocrine disease deriving from an insufficient production or secretion of anti-diuretic hormone. Recently, CDI has been reported as a rare side effect triggered by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in cancer patients. Despite its current rarity, CDI triggered by ICI is expected to affect an increasing number of patients because of the expanding use of these effective drugs in a growing number of solid and hematologic malignancies. An appropriate assessment of the severity of adverse events induced by anticancer agents is crucial in their management, including dosing adjustment and temporary withdrawal or discontinuation treatment. However, assessment of the severity of CDI induced by ICI may be challenging, as its main signs and symptoms (polyuria, dehydration, weight loss, and hypernatremia) can be incompletely graded. Indeed, the current grading system of toxicity induced by anticancer treatments does not include polyuria. Additionally, dehydration in patients affected by diabetes insipidus, including ICI-induced CDI, is different in certain aspects from that due to other conditions seen in cancer patients, such as vomiting and diarrhea. This prompted us to reflect on the need to grade polyuria, and how to grade it, and to consider a specific grading system for dehydration associated with CDI induced by ICI. Here we propose a new grading system for polyuria and dehydration, as critical symptoms of the CDI syndrome occurring in patients on ICI treatment, to obtain better management of both the adverse event and the triggering drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Barnabei
- Endocrinology Unit, Presidio Ospedaliero Santo Spirito in Sassia, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Roma 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Lidia Strigari
- Medical Physics Department, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Corsello
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore-Fondazione Policlinico “Gemelli” Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Paragliola
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore-Fondazione Policlinico “Gemelli” Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Salvatori
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism and Pituitary Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Salvatore Maria Corsello
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore-Fondazione Policlinico “Gemelli” Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
- UniCamillus Chair of Endocrinology, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Torino
- Department of Systems Medicine, Medical Oncology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesco Torino,
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11
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De Bellis A, Bellastella G, Pernice V, Cirillo P, Longo M, Maio A, Scappaticcio L, Maiorino MI, Bellastella A, Esposito K, Montoya JG. Hypothalamic-Pituitary Autoimmunity and Related Impairment of Hormone Secretions in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e5147-e5155. [PMID: 34254637 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a severe chronic illness that reduces the quality of life. A potential role of neuroendocrine autoimmune dysfunction has been hypothesized. OBJECTIVE This work aims to investigate the occurrence of antipituitary (APA) and antihypothalamic (AHA) antibodies and possible related hypothalamic/pituitary dysfunctions in ME/CSF patients. METHODS This is a case-control study conducted in a university hospital setting (Stanford, California, USA; and Naples, Italy). Thirty women with ME/CSF (group 1) diagnosed according to Fukuda, Canadian, and Institute of Medicine criteria, at Stanford University, were enrolled and compared with 25 age-matched healthy controls. APA and AHA were detected by immunofluorescence; moreover, we investigated hormonal secretions of anterior pituitary and respective target glands. APA and AHA titers both were assessed and the prevalence of pituitary hormone deficiencies was also investigated. RESULTS Patients in group 1 showed a high prevalence of AHA (33%) and APA (56%) and significantly lower levels of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)/cortisol, and growth hormone (GH) peak/insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) vs controls (all AHA/APA negative). Patients in group 1A (13 patients positive at high titers, ≥ 1:32) showed ACTH/cortisol and GH peak/IGF-1 levels significantly lower and more severe forms of ME/CFS with respect to patients in group 1B (7 positive at middle/low titers, 1:16-1:8) and 1C (10 antibody-negative patients). CONCLUSION Both AHA and/or APA at high titers were associated with hypothalamic/pituitary dysfunction, suggesting that hypothalamic/pituitary autoimmunity may play an important role in the manifestations of ME/CFS, especially in its more severe forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria De Bellis
- Unit of Andrology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bellastella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Vlenia Pernice
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Cirillo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Miriam Longo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonietta Maio
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Ida Maiorino
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Katherine Esposito
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Unit of Diabetes, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - José G Montoya
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine; Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Frasca F, Piticchio T, Le Moli R, Malaguarnera R, Campennì A, Cannavò S, Ruggeri RM. Recent insights into the pathogenesis of autoimmune hypophysitis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:1175-1185. [PMID: 34464545 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1974297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypophysitis is an inflammation of the pituitary gland and a rare case of hypopituitarism. Despite the expanding spectrum of histological variants and causative agents, its pathogenesis is far to be fully understood. The present review is focused on recent evidence concerning the pathogenesis of autoimmune hypophysitis by searching through online databases like MEDLINE and Scopus up to May 2021. AREAS COVERED Hypophysitis frequently develops in the context of a strong autoimmune background, including a wide spectrum of subtypes ranging from the commonest form of lymphocytic hypophysitis to the newly described and less common IgG4-, anti-PIT-1, and ICI-induced forms. A peculiar combination of genetic predisposition, pituitary damage and immunological setting represents the pathogenetic basis of autoimmune hypophysitis, which is characterized by diffuse infiltration of the gland by lymphocytes and variable degrees of fibrosis followed by pituitary cell destruction. Anti-pituitary antibodies (APA) have been described in sera from patients suffering from autoimmune hypophysitis, though their pathophysiological significance remains largely unknown and their diagnostic value limited. EXPERT OPINION In recent years hypophysitis has gained interest due to the increased number of new diagnoses and the recognition of novel subtypes. Further studies could lead to improvements in biochemical/immunological diagnosis and targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Frasca
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Tommaso Piticchio
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Le Moli
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo Campennì
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho-Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cannavò
- Unit of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Department of Human Pathology DETEV, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Rosaria Maddalena Ruggeri
- Unit of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Bellastella G, Carbone C, Scappaticcio L, Cirillo P, Troiani T, Morgillo F, Vietri MT, Della Corte CM, De Falco V, Napolitano S, Maiorino MI, De Bellis A, Esposito K. Hypothalamic-Pituitary Autoimmunity in Patients Treated with Anti-PD-1 and Anti-PD-L1 Antibodies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164036. [PMID: 34439190 PMCID: PMC8391584 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The aim of this study is to search for APA and AHA and related pituitary dysfunction in patients treated with immunotherapy. APA and AHA could represent markers for early detection of patients at risk of developing pituitary deficiencies related to immune checkpoint inhibitors and undergoing closer follow-up. Furthermore, this study aims to evaluate the correlation between the presence of AHA and APA and the clinical response to checkpoint inhibitor therapy. However, further prospective studies will be needed to confirm our results. Abstract Background: Autoimmune hypophysitis is a frequent immune-related adverse event (irAE) in cancer patients treated with immunecheckpoint inhibitors. Studies seeking anti-pituitary (APA) and anti-hypothalamus (AHA) antibodies in patients treated with anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 are scarce. The aim of this study is to search for APA and AHA and related pituitary dysfunction in patients treated with these agents. Methods:Cross-sectional and preliminary longitudinal studies were conducted at the Medical Oncology Unit and Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit of the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”. Fifty-four cancer patients on treatments with anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 (Group 1) and 50 healthy controls were enrolled for a cross-sectional study; 13 cancer patients (Group 2) were enrolled for our preliminary longitudinal study. APA/AHA titers and changes in biochemical and hormonal profile were evaluated in Group 1; in Group 2, they were evaluated before and after nine weeks from the start of immunotherapy. Results: Patients of Group 1 showed a higher prevalence of APA and AHA than controls: 21 of them had APA, 16 had AHA, and 11 had both autoantibodies. In total, 7 of 13 patients in Group 2 became APA-positive and 3 became AHA-positive after nine weeks of immunotherapy, showing an increase in prolactin and a decrease in ACTH and IGF-1 levels compared with basal values. Conclusions:Anti-pituitary and anti-hypothalamus antibodies seem to play a pivotal role in hypothalamic–pituitary autoimmunity and secondary endocrine-related alterations evoked by anti-PD-1 and PD-L1 antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Bellastella
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (L.S.); (P.C.); (M.I.M.); (A.D.B.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-081-566-5289
| | - Carla Carbone
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (L.S.); (P.C.); (M.I.M.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (L.S.); (P.C.); (M.I.M.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Paolo Cirillo
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (L.S.); (P.C.); (M.I.M.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Teresa Troiani
- Medical Oncology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (T.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.D.C.); (V.D.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Floriana Morgillo
- Medical Oncology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (T.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.D.C.); (V.D.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Maria Teresa Vietri
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Carminia Maria Della Corte
- Medical Oncology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (T.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.D.C.); (V.D.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Vincenzo De Falco
- Medical Oncology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (T.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.D.C.); (V.D.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Stefania Napolitano
- Medical Oncology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (T.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.D.C.); (V.D.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Maria Ida Maiorino
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (L.S.); (P.C.); (M.I.M.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Annamaria De Bellis
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.C.); (L.S.); (P.C.); (M.I.M.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Katherine Esposito
- Diabetes Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
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Sbardella E, Puliani G, Feola T, Pofi R, Pirchio R, Sesti F, Verdecchia F, Gianfrilli D, Moffat D, Isidori AM, Grossman AB. A clinical approach to parasellar lesions in the transition age. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12995. [PMID: 34138496 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Many reviews have summarised the pathology and management of the parasellar region in adult patients, although an analysis of these aspects in the transition years, from puberty onset to the age of peak bone mass, has been lacking. A comprehensive search of English-language original articles, published from 2000 to 2020, was conducted in the MEDLINE database (December 2019 to March 2020). We selected all studies regarding epidemiology, diagnosis and management of the following parasellar lesions: germinoma, craniopharyngioma, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, optic glioma, hypothalamic hamartoma, tuber cinereum hamartoma, cranial chordoma, Rathke cleft cyst, hypophysitis and hypothalamitis during the transition age from childhood to adulthood. In the present review, we provide an overview of the principal parasellar lesions occurring in the transition age. Symptoms are usually a result of the mass effect of the lesions on nearby structures, as well as anterior pituitary deficits. Diabetes insipidus occurs frequently in these patients. In this age group, pubertal developmental disorders may be more evident compared to other stages of life. Parasellar lesions in the transition age mostly include neoplastic lesions such as germinomas, hamartomas, optic gliomas, craniopharyngiomas Langerhans cell histiocytosis and chordomas, and rarely inflammatory lesions (hypophysitis, hypothalamitis). There are limited data on the management of parasellar lesions in the transition age. Endocrine evaluation is crucial for identifying conditions that require hormonal treatment so that they can be treated early to improve the quality of life of the individual patient in this complex age range. The clinical approach to parasellar lesions involves a multidisciplinary effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Sbardella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Puliani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziana Feola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Neuromed Institute, IRCCS, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pofi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Pirchio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Franz Sesti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Verdecchia
- Dipartimento Pediatrico Universitario Ospedaliero, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniel Moffat
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Department of Endocrinology, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK
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Xiang B, Sun Q, He M, Wu W, Lu B, Zhang S, Zhang Z, Yang Y, Li Y, Wu Y, Yao Z, Cheng H, Pan L, Miao Q, Wang Y, Ye H. Successful Diagnoses and Remarkable Metabolic Disorders in Patients With Solitary Hypothalamic Mass: A Case Series Report. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:693669. [PMID: 34603197 PMCID: PMC8481775 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.693669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Solitary intracranial hypothalamic mass occurs rarely. The etiological diagnosis of solitary hypothalamus lesion is challenging and often unachievable. Although previous studies indicated that lesions affecting the hypothalamus often cause significant metabolic disorders, few reports about the metabolic disturbances of patients with solitary hypothalamic mass have been reported. METHOD Twenty-five patients with solitary hypothalamus lesions who had been evaluated and treated in Huashan Hospital from January 2010 to December 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. The clinical manifestations, radiological features, endocrine and metabolic disorders, and pathology were analyzed. RESULTS The male to female ratio was 5/20. The median age of onset was 22 (19, 35) years old. The most common initial symptom was polydipsia/polyuria (19/25, 76.0%) and amenorrhea (9/20, 45.0%). A high prevalence of hypopituitarism of different axes was found, with almost all no less than 80%. Central hypogonadism (21/22, 95.5%) and central diabetes insipidus (19/21, 90.5%) were the top two pituitary dysfunctions. Conclusive diagnoses were achieved by intracranial surgical biopsy/resection or stereotactic biopsy in 16 cases and by examining extracranial lesions in 3 cases. The pathological results were various, and the most common diagnoses were Langerhans cell histiocytosis (7/19) and hypothalamitis (5/19). The mean timespan from onset to diagnosis in the 19 cases was 34 ± 26 months. Metabolic evaluations revealed remarkable metabolic disorders, including hyperlipidemia (13/16, 81.3%), hyperglycemia (10/16, 62.5%), hyperuricemia (12/20, 60%), overweight/obesity (13/20, 65.0%), and hepatic adipose infiltration (10/13, 76.6%). CONCLUSION Either surgical or stereotactic biopsy will be a reliable and relatively safe procedure to help to confirm the pathological diagnosis of solitary hypothalamic mass. Metabolic disorders were severe in patients with solitary hypothalamic mass. The management of such cases should cover both the treatment of the primary disease, as well as the endocrine and metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boni Xiang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Quanya Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min He
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Lu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaoyun Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yehong Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiming Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenwei Yao
- Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haixia Cheng
- Department of Pathology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Gamma Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Miao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hongying Ye, ; Yongfei Wang, ; Qing Miao,
| | - Yongfei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hongying Ye, ; Yongfei Wang, ; Qing Miao,
| | - Hongying Ye
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Hongying Ye, ; Yongfei Wang, ; Qing Miao,
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