Hypothalamic Pituitary Dysfunction

Disorders of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis have been the focus of continued investigation since the isolation of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) over 20 years ago. Since then, the complexity of the mechanisms controlling GnRH secretion from the hypothalamus - their associated feedback controls - have begun to be elucidated, most recently with the help of modern molecular biological techniques. Consequently, there has been an improvement in the diagnostic categorization of these disorders and a modified approach to management in cases of prolonged goadotrophin secretion deficiency. This book is an up-to-date analysis of the basic science, clinical diagnosis and management of hypothalamic pituitary gonadal dysfunction. It consists of selected contributions of a group of gynaecologists and physicians to an international workshop held in Manchester in November 1993. It should be of practical use to clinicians (gynaecologists and endocrinologists) dealing with patients with these disorders, and should benefit all those with an interest in this field.