Apoplexy

Definition

Apoplexy is bleeding into a cavity or organ. There are various forms of apoplexy, including adrenal apoplexy (bleeding into adrenal glands) and pituitary apoplexy (bleeding into the pituitary gland).

Pituitary Gland

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Causes

Apoplexy may be caused by:

• Expansion of a tumor
• Hormonal imbalance
• Blood clot
• Limited venous drainage
• Acute illness
• Drastic changes in blood volume or blood pressure
• Blood coagulation disorders

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your chance of developing apoplexy include:

• Hormonal insufficiency
• Previous surgery
• Bleeding disorders
• Injury

Symptoms

If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to apoplexy. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. Apoplexy can cause:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Loss of vision
• Double vision
• Altered mental status
• Shock
• Pain
• Fatigue

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Blood and urine tests will be done to look for signs of bleeding. Your doctor may also need images to look for areas of bleeding. Images may be taken with:

• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Initial treatment will be done to stabilize you. Once you have been stabilized, treatment options will be chosen based on the cause and location of your apoplexy. Options include:

• Medications—to correct hormonal imbalances
• Surgery—tumor removal if the tumor is the cause

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent apoplexy.