BLOOD SUGAR IN A CASE OF COMPLETE HYPOPHYSECTOMY

Abstract

In this communication we shall show primarily that total removal of the pituitary body lowers the fasting blood sugar to a hypoglycemic level without shock and gives a delayed sugar tolerance curve, which may be a plateau at times. Furthermore, we shall show that the blood sugar level is not wholly dependent on the presence of this gland and that apparently the gland has not complete control over any vital function. Detailed reports of the surgical procedures employed by the neurosurgeons in the removal of a pituitary tumor and the inadvertent complete removal of the hypophysis are presented with the purpose of proving our contention that no pituitary tissue remained in this case. Our studies were considerably limited by the patient's extreme irritability and his hypersensitiveness to pain. A number of tests had to be interrupted because of the intense mental and physical reactions incurred. REPORT OF A CASE A.