Prevalence of hyopituitarism in post-acute and chronic phase of hemorrhagic stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of death and represents the main cause of severe long-term disability. Ischemic stroke may be associated with hyopituitarism possibly influencing neurological recovery We evaluate the prevalence of pituitary dysfunction in a cohort of adult patients with moderate to severe hemorrhagic stroke (intraparenchymal hemorrhage) in comparison with a cohort of ischemic stroke patients. Hypopituitarism may be frequently discovered also in hemorrhagic stroke, persisting in the long term period in 15% of cases. Pituitary dysfunction in stroke is associated with unfavourable metabolic profile and may impair recovery. An endocrine assessment should be performed in all stroke patients.