Hypothalamic dysfunction

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Central nervous system

Hypothalamic dysfunction involves the region of the brain called the hypothalamus. This area is located behind the eyes and helps control the pituitary gland, particularly in response to stress. The pituitary in turn controls the thyroid, adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes.

The hypothalamus also helps regulate weight and appetite, body temperature, salt and water balance, and emotions. It is also involved in growth, milk production, childbirth, and sleep.

Causes of hypothalamic dysfunction include tumors (growths), surgery, radiation, infections and inflammation, genetic disorders, head trauma, bleeding, malnutrition, and excess iron. The most common tumors in the area are craniopharyngiomas in children.

Anorexia (excessive voluntary weight loss) and bulimia (vomiting induced to reduce weight) can also cause hypothalamic dysfunction.

Review Date: 05/12/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.