Acromegaly
Description of Acromegaly:
Acromegaly (from Greek akros "extreme" or "extremities" and megalos "large" -
extremities enlargement) is a syndrome that results when the pituitary gland
produces excess growth hormone (hGH) after epiphyseal plate closure. A number of
disorders may affect the pituitary to create this circumstance, although most
commonly it involves a GH producing tumor derived from a distinct type of cells
(somatotrophs) and called pituitary adenoma.
Acromegaly most commonly affects adults in middle age, and can result in
severe disfigurement, serious complicating conditions, and premature death if
unchecked. Because of its insidious pathogenesis and slow progression, the
disease is hard to diagnose in the early stages and is frequently missed for
many years, when changes in external features, especially of the face, become
noticeable.
Acromegaly is often also associated with gigantism.
Specific Acromegaly Information
Articles, questions and answers.
