A Toluene-induced Infundibulo-neuro-hypophysitis: Presentation of a New Cause of Hypophysitis Secondary to Toxic Exposure and Review on Toluene Inhalation Endocrine Effects

Introduction: Hypophysitis is a rare inflammatory disorder of the pituitary gland. Symptoms and signs of hypophysitis can be various, progressing insidiously, and its recognition may be challenging. Case Presentation: We report the clinical history and therapeutic management of a 59-year-old man diagnosed with arginine vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D) due to an infundibulo-neuro-hypophysitis (INH) that occurred after the patient had inhaled spray film containing toluene. In consideration of the clinical signs and radiological imaging suggestive of INH, therapy with desmopressin and corticosteroids was instituted, with gradual improvement of polyuria and resolution of the radiological features of INH. Conclusion: To our knowledge, we described the first case of INH, manifested with AVP-D, secondary to toluene exposure. In addition, the endocrine effects of toluene inhalation were discussed. Finally, given the scarcity of data available, an overview of all the known toxic substances inducing AVP-D was also provided.