Angelite Nurses: Hyperpituitarism

Hyperpituitarism

General information

Hyperfunction of the anterior pituitary gland resulting in oversecretion of one or more of the anterior pituitary hormones
Overproduction of the growth hormone produces acromegaly in adults and gigantism in children (if hypersecretion occurs before epiphyseal closure); see Hyperpituitarim (Gigantism), in Unit 5.
Usually caused by a benign pituitary adenoma

Medical management: surgical removal or irradiation of the gland
Assessment findings

Tumor: bitemporal hemianopia; headache
Hormonal disturbances depending on which hormones are being excreted in excess
Acromegaly caused by oversecretion of growth hormones: transverse enlargement of bones, especially noticeable in skull and in bones of hands and feet; features become coarse and heavy; lips become heavier; tongue enlarged
Diagnostic tests

Skull x-ray, CT scan reveal pituitary tumor
Plasma hormone levels reveal increased growth hormone, oversecretion of other hormones

Nursing interventions

Monitor for hyperglycemia and cardiovascular problems (hypertension, angina, CHF) and modify care accordingly.
Provide psychologic support and acceptance for alterations in body image.
Provide care for the client undergoing hypophysectomy or radiation therapy if indicated.

0 comments:

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)