Sheehan's syndrome natural history, complications and prognosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Iqra Qamar M.D.[2]

Sheehan’s syndrome leads to hypopituitarism and empty sella syndrome, if left untreated. Common complications are including adrenal crisis, hypotension, hypothyroidism, and hypopituitarism. Prognosis is generally excellent provided early diagnosis and management resulting in complete reversal of symptoms.

• Sheehan’s syndrome usually results in anterior pituitary shrinkage within 20 days, followed by disappearance of pituitary tissue in 6-8 week; resulting in hypopituitarism and empty sella syndrome.
• The symptoms of Sheehan’s syndrome can develop during immediate post-puerperal period to years after delivery.
• It may result in sparing or reversal of gonadotropic dysfunction as few cases of successful pregnancies have been reported following Sheehan’s syndrome.^[1][2]
• If left untreated, lead to mitral regurgitation, pericardial effusion, and diminished left ventricular motion, adrenal crisis, hypopituitarism, and empty sella syndrome.^[3]

• Common complications of Sheehan’s syndrome are including:
  • Adrenal crisis
  • Hypotension
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Empty sella syndrome

• Prognosis is generally good, and results in reversal of symptoms once respective hormones are being replaced.

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