Symptoms of Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a disease characterized by over secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. The symptoms of acromegaly occur slowly over many years. Common symptoms of acromegaly include increase in shoes size, hat size, and ring size. Patients often develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Other symptoms include the development of hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, and hypoadrenalism.

The most prominent symptoms of acromegaly occur with changes in the face, neck, hands and feet. These features change over time because acromegaly is a disease characterized by over secretion of growth hormone. The face enlarges, the eyebrow ridge becomes more prominent, the lips thicken, and gaps develop between the teeth. The neck often shows evidence of a goiter, the hands become overgrown and develop thick skin. The feet often enlarge resulting in a change in show size.

The diagnosis of acromegaly is made by history and physical exam in combination with measurement of IGF-1, Pituitary function, and GHRH measurement. Often a MRI of the brain and x-rays of the hands and feet are helpful. Additionally, a glucose tolerance test with measurement of glucose and growth hormone aid in the diagnosis

Acromegaly is caused by over secretion of growth hormone. Often this occurs because of a pituitary adenoma. It can also be associated with bronchial carcioid tumors and tumors of the pancreas.

The treatment of acromegaly often requires surgery or radiation. Sometimes somatostatin analogues or dopamine agonists can be used for medical management.

Symptoms of acromegaly often do not lead directly to the underlying diagnosis and many symptoms can be misleading. Please review all concerns and information found on this website with your health care provider.