Irreversible acromegaly is a medical condition characterized by the overproduction of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland. This leads to an increase in the size of the hands, feet, and face. It is a rare disorder, affecting about 2 out of every 1 million people.
The cause of acromegaly is usually a non-cancerous tumor of the pituitary gland. This tumor, called an adenoma, secretes too much GH, which triggers the body to grow. In some cases, acromegaly can be caused by a tumor in other parts of the body that produces GH.
In the early stages, acromegaly may not cause any symptoms. As it progresses, it can lead to a variety of health problems. These include increased size of the hands, feet, and face; thickening of the skin; enlargement of the nose, jaw, and tongue; headache; and joint problems. It can also cause excessive sweating, fatigue, carpal tunnel syndrome, and high blood pressure.
Because the tumor that causes acromegaly is non-cancerous, it cannot be cured. Treatment is focused on controlling GH levels and reducing the size of the tumor. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatments may include medications, surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of these. While treatment may help to reduce symptoms, it cannot reverse the effects of acromegaly, which is why it is considered an irreversible condition.
If left untreated, acromegaly can lead to serious health complications, including diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems. It is important to be diagnosed and treated for acromegaly as soon as possible to reduce the risk of these complications.