Acromegaly is a condition caused by an excess of growth hormone (GH) in the body. It is typically diagnosed in adults, usually between the ages of 25 and 40. It is estimated that acromegaly affects about 1 in every 20,000 people.
The symptoms of acromegaly can be slow and subtle, and may not be noticed until the condition has progressed. Common symptoms include enlarged hands and feet, protruding facial features, and thickening of the skin. Other symptoms may include joint pain, exaggerated sweating, headaches, fatigue, vision problems, and menstrual irregularities in women.
Acromegaly can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions. If any of the above symptoms are present, a doctor may order a GH test to measure the level of GH in the blood. If the GH level is too high, then it could be an indication of acromegaly.
In some cases, imaging scans such as a CT scan or MRI may be performed to look for any tumors in the pituitary gland that could be causing the excess of GH. If a tumor is found, this can help to confirm the diagnosis of acromegaly.
It is important to diagnose and treat acromegaly early, as it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Treatment typically involves medications and/or surgery to reduce the amount of GH in the body. With proper treatment, symptoms of acromegaly can be managed, and a person can live a normal life.