Predict: Acromegaly is a syndromes of excessive secretion of growth hormone (hypersomatotropism)
that are nearly always due to a pituitary adenoma. What effects would acromegaly have on an
individual?
Acromegaly is a condition characterized by the excessive secretion of growth hormone (hypersomatotropism), which is almost always caused by a pituitary adenoma, a non-cancerous tumor in the pituitary gland. The overproduction of growth hormone leads to several effects on an individual's body.
1. Physical changes: Acromegaly primarily affects the bones, tissues, and organs, causing abnormal growth. Over time, the excessive growth hormone causes the bones in the hands, feet, and face to enlarge. This can result in enlarged hands and feet, facial changes such as a protruding jaw, enlarged nose, thickened lips, and spaced teeth. The bones may become thicker, leading to joint pain and reduced mobility.
2. Soft tissue changes: Apart from bone growth, acromegaly also leads to the growth of soft tissues in the body. This includes an increase in the size of organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. Soft tissues, such as the skin, may become thickened and oily.
3. Endocrine system disruptions: Acromegaly can interfere with the normal functioning of other hormones in the body. This can lead to conditions like diabetes mellitus, as the excess growth hormone can impair the action of insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.
4. Cardiovascular effects: The enlarged organs, particularly the heart, can strain the cardiovascular system. This may lead to an increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications.
5. Respiratory and sleep disturbances: The changes in the soft tissues and enlarged organs can also affect the respiratory system. Individuals with acromegaly may experience sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
To predict these effects, it is important to understand the underlying cause of acromegaly, which is the excessive secretion of growth hormone due to a pituitary adenoma. A diagnosis of acromegaly can be confirmed through clinical evaluation, blood tests to measure hormone levels, imaging studies like MRI to identify the pituitary adenoma, and additional tests to assess the function of the pituitary gland and other affected organs.