Risk factors and management of deep venous thrombosis in children following post-surgical hypopituitarism in craniopharyngioma

Abstract

Post-operative hypopituitarism following craniopharyngioma (CP) surgery is treated by replacement of various hormones. The risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) following CP surgery and initiation of hormones has not been well studied and recognized. We present three patients with DVT who had family history of DVT and procoagulant risk factors such as inherited thrombophilia and elevated Von Willebrand factor levels due to treatment with desmopressin. We discuss the individualized management of anticoagulation and the dilemma of starting estrogen and progesterone replacement therapy in them. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.