Definition:
Nelson's Syndrome is the rapid enlargement of a pituitary tumor that comes about after removing both adrenal glands.
Symptoms and Signs:
Nelson Syndrome presents the following manifestations:
* Reduced visual fields
* Excessive pigmentations in the skin
* Pituitary humor
* Increased levels of ACTH or Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone
* Headache
* Absence of menstruation
* Enlarged pituitary gland
* Increased levels of Melanocyte-stimulating Hormone (MSH)
* Muscle weakness
Causes:
Removal of adrenal glands for the purpose of treating Cushing's disease eliminates cortisol production. This situation can trigger any pre-existing pituitary tumor to grow rapidly without being noticed. Uninterrupted growth can bring about major negative consequences due to physical compression of the brain tissue.
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