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16th September 2024
Clinical features
NFAs can cause pituitary hypofunction due to compression of pituitary tissue and symptoms from the local mass effect. Hyperprolactinemia may occur if the adenoma compresses the pituitary stalk, reducing hypothalamic dopamine and increasing prolactin. A concise summary of clinical features is provided in the table below.
| Hypopituitary features of NFA | Reduced GH | Reduced energy levels
Loss of lean body mass Increased insulin sensitivity Impaired mental health Increased central adiposity, dyslipidaemia |
| Reduced LH/FSH | Menstrual changes, loss of libido, osteoporosis | |
| Reduced TSH | Menstrual changes, fatigue, constipation, deep voice
Reduced appetite, weight gain, cold intolerance |
|
| Reduced ACTH | Pale skin, fatigue, reduced libido, deep voice
Anorexia, weight loss, postural hypotension |
|
| Direct effects from the NFA | Headache
Visual field loss, reduced visual acuity, diplopia Hyperprolactinaemia |
|
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