Understanding Lab Tests for Hypopituitarism
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Hypopituitarism is a rare disorder in which the pituitary gland fails to produce adequate amounts of one or more of its essential hormones. Since the pituitary gland controls many other hormone-producing glands throughout the body, this condition can have wide-ranging effects on metabolism, growth, reproduction, and stress response.
Top Recommended Test
Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
FSH and LH are key reproductive hormones produced by the pituitary gland. In hypopituitarism, these hormones are often deficient, leading to reproductive and sexual health issues. Testing these levels helps assess pituitary function related to reproductive health.
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Diagnosing Hypopituitarism Through Blood Testing
Blood tests are the primary diagnostic tool for hypopituitarism. Because this condition involves deficiencies in multiple hormones produced or regulated by the pituitary gland, comprehensive hormone testing is essential to identify which specific hormones are affected and to what degree.
Other Relevant Tests
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA-s) Sulfate
DHEA-S levels can indicate hypopituitarism as the pituitary gland regulates adrenal hormone production. Low levels of DHEA-S may suggest inadequate pituitary stimulation of the adrenal glands, which is characteristic of this condition.
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Prolactin
Prolactin is directly produced by the pituitary gland, and hypopituitarism can result in a shortage of this hormone. Low prolactin levels can affect various functions including breastfeeding in women and may indicate pituitary dysfunction.
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DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), Unconjugated, LC/MS/MS
DHEA levels can be reduced in hypopituitarism due to decreased pituitary hormone secretion. This test provides a precise measurement of unconjugated DHEA, helping to assess adrenal function as regulated by the pituitary gland.
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Pregnenolone, LC/MS
Pregnenolone production can be affected in hypopituitarism because the pituitary gland regulates adrenal hormone production. Low pregnenolone levels may indicate insufficient pituitary stimulation of the adrenal glands, supporting a diagnosis of hypopituitarism.
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Testosterone, Free and Total, LC/MS/MS
Testosterone levels are often reduced in hypopituitarism due to insufficient production of LH and FSH by the pituitary gland. Low free and total testosterone levels can indicate pituitary dysfunction affecting reproductive hormone production.
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Understanding Your Results
Hypopituitarism diagnosis typically requires multiple hormone deficiencies to be present. Your healthcare provider will evaluate the pattern of hormone levels across these different tests to determine if hypopituitarism is present and which specific pituitary functions are affected.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Additional testing and evaluation may be needed to confirm a diagnosis of hypopituitarism.
