Sheehan Syndrome: An Unusual Presentation Without Inciting Factors

• Main Authors: Ramya Sethuram (Author), Daniel S. Guilfoil (Author), Renee Amori (Author), Julia Kharlip (Author), Karen M. Berkowitz (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Mary Ann Liebert, 2020-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 10.1089/WHR.2019.0028; 2688-4844
• Keywords: Sheehan syndrome; postpartum headache; hypopituitarism; agalactia; postpartum amenorrhea; case report; Gynecology and obstetrics; RG1-991; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Women's Health Reports, Vol 1, Iss 1, Pp 287-292 (2020)

Background: Sheehan syndrome (SS) is a rare complication of severe postpartum hemorrhage or hypotension during the processes of labor and delivery that results in ischemic pituitary infarction and necrosis. In this case report, we describe an unusual presentation of SS without inciting factors. Case Presentation: A 30-year-old multiparous woman presented 2 hours after a normal spontaneous vaginal delivery with a profound severe headache, and subsequent agalactia, dry skin, and mood changes. She was managed conservatively until 10 months postdelivery when she complained of persistent symptoms including amenorrhea. A brain magnetic resonance (MR) with pituitary imaging revealed findings consistent with SS. The patient's symptoms improved and ultimately resolved after levothyroxine, estrogen replacement therapy, and hydrocortisone were instituted. Conclusions: SS can present without recognized inciting factors. During the initial phase, women may present with profound headache and/or visual disturbances warranting neurological evaluation. A high index of suspicion and a brain MR with pituitary imaging should prompt early consideration of SS to aid in the diagnosis.