Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder characterized by excessive growth hormone (GH) production, typically due to a benign pituitary adenoma. It occurs in adults after epiphyseal closure, leading to progressive somatic disfigurement, including enlarged hands and feet, altered facial features, thickened skin, and organomegaly. Common symptoms involve joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, sleep apnea, hypertension, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. If untreated, acromegaly results in significant morbidity and premature mortality. Diagnosis relies on elevated GH and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, along with imaging to identify pituitary tumors. Treatment primarily involves surgical removal of the tumor, supplemented by medications or radiation therapy when needed. The condition most commonly affects individuals aged 30–50, though it can occur at any age; when it develops before growth plate fusion, it causes gigantism. Acromegaly may also be associated with certain genetic syndromes, including MEN1, MEN4, McCune-Albright syndrome, and Carney complex.