The pituitary gland is called the master endocrine gland because it controls the function of other endocrine organs. Hypopituitarism is when there is a partial hormone deficiency in hormones made by the pituitary gland. Panhypopituitarism is when all pituitary hormones are missing.

The hormones made by the pituitary gland include:

  • Growth hormone
  • Adrenocorticotropic or stress hormone
  • Thyroid stimulating hormone
  • Gonadotropins or puberty hormones
  • Antidiuretic or water hormone
  • Oxytocin
  • Prolactin

Treatments involve medicines and replacement of the missing hormones.