Which complication arises from Sheehan's syndrome?

Study for the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Sheehan's syndrome is a condition that occurs due to severe blood loss during or after childbirth, leading to pituitary gland dysfunction from ischemic necrosis. This condition can cause a variety of hormonal deficiencies, as the pituitary gland, which regulates several essential hormones, is compromised.

In Sheehan's syndrome, the destruction of the pituitary gland can lead to prolactin deficiency. The pituitary gland typically produces prolactin, which plays a crucial role in lactation and reproductive health. When there is a deficiency in this hormone, a woman's ability to produce breast milk can be significantly impacted.

Additionally, damage to the pituitary gland can also impact the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which regulates the thyroid gland and its hormones, including thyroid hormones that control metabolism and energy levels. A decrease in TSH can lead to hypothyroidism, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

Given these effects, hyperprolactinemia does not typically arise from Sheehan's syndrome—instead, a deficiency is more likely due to decreased pituitary function. Therefore, the most relevant complications from Sheehan's syndrome specifically include prolactin deficiency and hypothyroidism, which aligns with

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