Pituitary Disease

A research programme has investigated the long-term consequences of hypopituitarism.  Epidemiological evidence has shown premature death from cardiovascular disease in hypopituitarism and investigations in vivo have demonstrated evidence of excess cardiovascular disease during life.  The mechanisms underlying this premature vascular disease have been the subject of investigation.  Patients show multiple risk factors.  The role of growth hormone deficiency, and replacement therapy with growth hormone, together with the role of glucocorticoids, have been studied.  Optimal treatment regimens are under investigation.