Hypopituitarism?

[FoggyMoggy]

It seems from my blood results that I posted the other day and from other things I've read that I may have a problem with my pituitary. My T3 was low (just outside range), my TSH within range but low and T4 quite low but within range.

I've not discussed results with my GP yet but will she be able to prescribe (if necessary) or will I have to see an endocrinologist?

[helvella Administrator]

You might find some help here:

pituitary.org.uk/

In my view, whilst any GP could dish out levothyroxine, and a few might even prescribe liothyronine or even desiccated thyroid, that would only be treating one aspect of hypopituitarism. I doubt there are many, if any, GPs who would have even a fraction of the skills required to properly evaluate, assess and treat hypopituitarism.

Try to identify an endocrinologist with specific experience of the pituitary and not a general purpose diabetes person.

Rod

[FoggyMoggy in reply to helvella]

Thanks you, Rod. How do I find the right endocrinoloist and would I have a choice on the NHS where to go?

I've just clicked on the link, thanks, and it suggests that 'initially your GP may perform some basic pituitary hormone function tests. The hormones that can be tested via a simple blood test include: cortisol, thyroid, prolactin, oestrogen, testosterone and growth hormone.'

Are these done for free on the NHS do you know?

Thanks

[Hidden in reply to FoggyMoggy]

Yes those tests are free on NHS

[FoggyMoggy in reply to Hidden]

Thanks pippins! Maybe I need to get them checked out.

[Clutter in reply to FoggyMoggy]

FFZ those tests can be ordered by your GP or endocrinologist and will be free on the NHS. Contact the Patient Advisory Liaison Service (PALS) at university teaching hospitals near to you and ask whether they hold pituitary clinics and, if so, the name of the consultant endocrinologist/s and ask your GP to refer you.

[FoggyMoggy in reply to Clutter]

Great advice - thanks Clutter. Could that be any PALS service or does it have to be university teaching hospitals?

[Clutter in reply to FoggyMoggy]

FFZ, I doubt a non-university teaching hospital will have a pituitary clinic or specialist.

[Hidden]

I've heard there's a very good female Endocrinologist who is very good with pituitary problems and adrenal insufficiency. She's at the well known Oxford hospital.

[FoggyMoggy in reply to Hidden]

Thanks, Helcaster, though that's a bit far away for me

[Hidden in reply to FoggyMoggy]

It's 120miles each way for me, but I've heard really good things from one of her patients. I know the distance can be a pain, but my local endo doesn't cut it for me!

[FoggyMoggy in reply to Hidden]

OK, thanks

[FallenAngel]

I have just seen an endo and after 26 years have been told my thyroid issues are coming from my pituitary not my thyroid . I am on levo 100mcgdaily .Had mri for pituitary tumour and was told I have a shortage of fluid in pituitary area , MY tsh is always low at 0.01 .but other numbers are good .. all the best .

[FoggyMoggy in reply to FallenAngel]

Thanks FallenAngel. Best wishes