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. 2011 Sep;15 Suppl 3(Suppl3):S203-7.
doi: 10.4103/2230-8210.84869.

Sheehan's syndrome: Newer advances

C Shivaprasad  1
Affiliations

Sheehan's syndrome: Newer advances

C Shivaprasad. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Sep.

Abstract

Sheehan's syndrome (SS) is postpartum hypopituitarism caused by necrosis of the pituitary gland. It is usually the result of severe hypotension or shock caused by massive hemorrhage during or after delivery. Patients with SS have varying degrees of anterior pituitary hormone deficiency. Its frequency is decreasing worldwide and it is a rare cause of hypopituitarism in developed countries owing to advances in obstetric care. However, it is still frequent in underdeveloped and developing countries. SS often evolves slowly and hence is diagnosed late. History of postpartum hemorrhage, failure to lactate and cessation of menses are important clues to the diagnosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to reduce morbidity and mortality of the patients.

Keywords: Lactation failure; Sheehan; pituitary necrosis; postpartum hemorrhage.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Pathophysiology of Sheehan's syndrome
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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