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Hypothalamic dysfunction - Overview

Definition of Hypothalamic dysfunction:

Hypothalamic dysfunction is a problem with the region of the brain called the hypothalamus, which helps control the pituitary gland and regulate many body functions.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The hypothalamus helps control the pituitary gland, particularly in response to stress. The pituitary, in turn, controls the:

The hypothalamus also helps regulate:

  • Body temperature
  • Childbirth
  • Emotions
  • Growth
  • Milk production
  • Salt and water balance
  • Sleep
  • Weight and appetite

Causes of hypothalamic dysfunction include:

  • Anorexia
  • Bleeding
  • Bulimia
  • Genetic disorders
  • Growths (tumors)
  • Head trauma
  • Infections and swelling (inflammation)
  • Malnutrition
  • Radiation
  • Surgery
  • Too much iron

The most common tumors in the area are craniopharyngiomas in children.

  • Reviewed last on: 11/23/2009
  • Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Low MJ. Neuroendocrinology. In: Kronenberg HM, Melmed S, Polonsky KS, Larsen PR. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 7.

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