Definition

Apoplexy is bleeding into an organ or loss of blood flow to an organ. For example,

• Adrenal apoplexy -- bleeding into the adrenal glands
• Pituitary apoplexy -- bleeding into the pituitary gland

Apoplexy most often refers to stroke symptoms that occur suddenly. Such symptoms occur due to bleeding into the brain. It can also occur by a blood clot in a brain blood vessel. Conditions such as subarachnoid hemorrhage or stroke are sometimes called apoplexy.

Functional apoplexy is when a person appears to be having stroke-like symptoms. However, there is no brain defect.

References

Goldstein LB. Approach to cerebrovascular diseases. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 375.

Thiessen MEW. Thyroid and adrenal disorders. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 117.