Philippine E-Journals

Delayed Post-Partum Psychosis: A Case Report on Sheehan’s Syndrome

Irene V. Columbano | Lily Ann H. Cabuling

 

Abstract:

 In modern day health care, a rare disorder affecting the post-partum period – the Sheehan’s syndrome, can still occur in women manifesting with hypopituitarism after difficult deliveries..

A case of a 49-old-year old female was admitted and treated at MCU-FDTMF Hospital when she presented with psychosis and signs of hypopituitarism 29 years after her last delivery with profuse bleeding. A series of laboratory examinations was conducted yielding results compatible with hormonal derangements seen in Sheehan’s syndrome. Hormonal replacement was initiated providing resolution of her psychosis and reversion of signs and symptoms found to be secondary to panhypopituitarism.

Sheehan’s Syndrome is not commonly encountered in the present healthcare situation as a result of better obstetric care but it should still be considered in any woman who presents with hypopituitarism after post-partum hemorrhage. Separate diagnoses can be given to each and every problem that the patient may present but separate management may not be enough to correct it. Prompt diagnosis through history, physical examination, and analysis of clinical presentation and laboratory studies therefore, is necessary in order to initiate the appropriate therapy. Hormonal replacement therapy, with careful follow-up of laboratory and clinical results, is mandated for patient’s improvement and recovery.