Isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency not always permanent

Abstract

Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone (ACTH) deficiency is the most life-threatening feature of hypopituitarism. Isolated Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone (ACTH) deficiency, although well defined, is very rare [1]. Its clinical manifestations are similar to those of Addison’s disease, i.e weakness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, orthostatic hypotension, anorexia, weight loss, and most commonly hypoglycemia [2]. However, rare presentism may occur [3,4]. Most causes are secondary to autoimmune process such as lymphocytic hypophysitis [5,6]. It may also occur after traumatic head injury and pituitary irradiation [7,8]. Genetic is encountered in the neonatal and childhood [9,10]. It might be associated with transient growth hormone (GH) deficiency or thyroid disorders [11,12]. Also, various toxins were associated with the deficiency [13]. In this communication, we describe two patients with Isolated Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone (ACTH) deficiency that experienced two different outcomes (transient vs. permanent) with an attempt to highlight the importance of understanding such disorders and its aetio-pathophysiology.