Patients with Ectopic Posterior Pituitary: Report of 6 Patients

Abstract

Objective: Ectopic posterior pituitary (EPP) can occur because of a migration defect or neurodegeneration of the hypothalamic nuclei. EPP is typically rarely diagnosed. Therefore, we aimed to report our patients with EPP. Material and Methods: This is a retrospective study (approved by the Ege University Ethical Committee, protocol 20-7T/49) that included 6 patients with EPP who were followed up between 2012 and 2019. We collected information on age, sex, height, weight, body mass index, age at the diagnosis, history of traumatic delivery, consanguinity, multiple hormone deficiency and treatment. We examined laboratory levels and medical records, and, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reports. Results: The mean age of patients was 25.83 years, and the age at diagnosis was 11.16 years. One patient was female, and the others were male. They were receiving hormone replacement treatment. The patients were diagnosed with EPP during their childhood. All patients, except 2, were taking growth hormone replacement therapy. Only one patient had a history of consanguinity. Additional information about the patients is described in the patient sections. Conclusion: Patients with EPP are rarely seen, and this rare condition should be considered when a patient has panhypopituitarism. MRI is the gold standard imaging modality for hypophysis to identify this condition. In addition, patients who have EPP in MRI should be screened for hypopituitarism.