Yes, excessive production of the hormone insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) can cause acromegaly. Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder caused by a tumor, usually on the pituitary gland, that produces too much growth hormone, which in turn leads to overproduction of IGF1. Symptoms of acromegaly include enlargement of facial features, hands, feet, and other body parts, as well as joint pain, excessive sweating, headaches, and vision problems.
IGF1 is a hormone produced by the liver in response to stimulation by growth hormone, and it plays an important role in normal growth and development. In people with acromegaly, excessive production of IGF1 results from excessive growth hormone production. This leads to higher than normal levels of IGF1 in the bloodstream, which can cause the symptoms of acromegaly.
In addition to the production of too much IGF1, acromegaly can also be caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland that produces too much growth hormone. This type of tumor is called an adenoma and can cause the pituitary gland to produce too much growth hormone, leading to the same symptoms as excessive IGF1 production.
The treatment for acromegaly depends on the underlying cause. In cases of excessive IGF1 production, treatment may include medications to reduce IGF1 levels, or surgery to remove the tumor causing the overproduction. In cases of a tumor producing too much growth hormone, surgery to remove the tumor is usually the best option.