Acromegaly is caused by an overproduction of growth hormone in adults. This overproduction is usually caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain. The tumor produces too much of a hormone called growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), which then triggers the production of growth hormone.
Growth hormone is responsible for normal growth during childhood and adolescence, but when produced in excess in adults, it causes a number of changes in the body. These include enlargement of the hands and feet, thickening of the facial features, and deepening of the voice. Other symptoms include excessive perspiration, joint pain, sleep apnea, and excessive fatigue.
In most cases, acromegaly is caused by a non-cancerous pituitary adenoma, a tumor of the pituitary gland. The tumor may not cause any symptoms at first, but as it grows, it can begin to interfere with the production of other hormones and cause the symptoms of acromegaly. In some cases, the cause of the tumor may be unknown.
In some cases, acromegaly is caused by a tumor in another part of the body, such as the pancreas, lungs, or thyroid. These tumors, called ectopic tumors, produce their own growth hormone and can cause the same symptoms as those caused by a pituitary tumor.
Acromegaly is a serious condition that can lead to a number of complications, including damage to the heart, lungs, and organs, as well as development of diabetes. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the tumor, as well as medications to reduce growth hormone production. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used to shrink the tumor.