The symptoms of hypopituitarism can vary depending on which hormones are deficient. Some common symptoms may include:

Fatigue and weakness

Weight loss or weight gain

Decreased libido and sexual dysfunction

Irregular or absent menstrual periods in women

Infertility

Low blood pressure

Sensitivity to cold

Slowed growth and development in children

Loss of body hair

Cognitive difficulties and memory problems

The primary cause of hypopituitarism is damage to the pituitary gland. This damage can occur due to various factors, including:

Pituitary tumors

Pituitary surgery or radiation therapy

Head trauma or brain injury

Autoimmune diseases affecting the pituitary gland

Genetic disorders

Infections or inflammation of the pituitary gland

Certain medications or treatments

There isn't a single most common type of hypopituitarism. The specific hormone deficiencies in hypopituitarism can vary, and the prevalence of different types may differ depending on the underlying causes or population studied. However, deficiencies in growth hormone (GH) and gonadotropins (such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)) are relatively common.

The diagnosis of hypopituitarism typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and blood tests to measure hormone levels. Some diagnostic procedures may include:

Hormone testing: Blood tests to measure the levels of various hormones produced by the pituitary gland.

Stimulation tests: Tests that assess the response of the pituitary gland to certain stimuli, helping to determine the function of specific hormones.

Imaging studies: Such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans to identify any structural abnormalities or tumors in the pituitary gland.

Treatment for hypopituitarism usually involves hormone replacement therapy. The specific hormones that need replacement will depend on the deficiencies present. Commonly replaced hormones include:

Cortisol (glucocorticoids)

Thyroid hormone

Sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone)

Growth hormone (in selected cases)

Vasopressin (if diabetes insipidus is present)

The hormone replacement therapy aims to alleviate symptoms and maintain adequate hormone levels in the body. The treatment plan is individualized based on the patient's needs and closely monitored by a healthcare professional.