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Drug-induced hypopituitarism

ICD10CM code

Name of the Condition

  • Drug-induced hypopituitarism

Summary

  • Drug-induced hypopituitarism is a condition where the pituitary gland's function is impaired due to the adverse effects of certain medications. This can lead to various hormonal imbalances affecting several bodily functions.

Causes

  • The condition is primarily caused by medications that impact pituitary hormone production or secretion, such as glucocorticoids, chemotherapeutic agents, and immunosuppressive drugs.

Risk Factors

  • Prolonged use of certain medications, especially high-dose corticosteroids.
  • Individuals undergoing chemotherapy or extensive treatment with immunosuppressants.
  • Pre-existing health conditions requiring long-term pharmaceutical interventions.

Symptoms

  • Symptoms may include fatigue, weight changes, low blood pressure, muscle weakness, and diminished sex drive due to insufficient hormonal levels.

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis typically involves hormone level blood tests, MRI scans of the pituitary gland, and a detailed patient medication history.

Treatment Options

  • Treatment may include discontinuing the causative medication or switching to an alternative.
  • Hormone replacement therapy is often necessary to compensate for the reduced production of pituitary hormones.

    Prognosis and Follow-Up

  • The prognosis can vary depending on the ability to modify the use of the inducing drug and the overall health of the patient. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor hormone levels and adjust treatments.

Complications

  • If left untreated, it can lead to more severe hormonal deficiencies, impacting critical functions like metabolism, stress response, and sexual function.

Lifestyle & Prevention

  • Avoiding or minimizing exposure to drugs known to affect pituitary function can prevent the condition.
  • Regular monitoring for those on high-risk medications is essential for early detection and management.

When to Seek Professional Help

  • If experiencing symptoms like unexplained fatigue, muscle weakness, or significant changes in weight or blood pressure, medical advice should be sought promptly.

Additional Resources

Tips for Medical Coders

  • Ensure the prescribing drug is documented as the cause when coding drug-induced hypopituitarism.
  • Verify with the patient's medication history to avoid errors.
  • E23.1 should be used specifically for cases where the link to medication is evident, even if the particular drug is not identified.