Recurrent epigastric pains simulating peptic ulcer in postpartum pituitary necrosis - Report of a case

Unlike most patients with Addison's disease, patients with hypopituitarism manifest few of the characteristic features of adrenocortical hypofunction. Hypotensive or hypoglycemic episodes may therefore present as initial signs of adrenal crisis in patients who may have manifested only minor degrees of other target-gland dysfunction. A case of Sheehan's syndrome with recurrent epigastric pains (simulating peptic ulcer disease) of eleven years' duration is presented. Evidence is afforded that these gastrointestinal symptoms may have represented early manifestations of adrenal insufficiency.