Acromegaly is a rare disorder that affects about 1 in every 10,000 people in the United States. It is caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland, which causes an overproduction of growth hormone in the body. This can lead to a wide range of physical and mental changes, such as excessive growth of the hands, feet, and face, and mental changes such as depression and anxiety.
Symptoms of Acromegaly
The most common symptom of acromegaly is an enlargement of the hands, feet, and face. Other symptoms include:
- Increased body and facial hair
- Widening of the lower jaw
- Thickening of the skin
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Joint pain and stiffness
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Heart and respiratory problems
Diagnosis of Acromegaly
Acromegaly is typically diagnosed through a series of blood tests, imaging tests, and physical examinations. The blood tests measure the levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in the body. Imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans are also used to check for tumors in the pituitary gland.
Treatment of Acromegaly
Treatment for acromegaly usually involves surgery to remove the tumor in the pituitary gland, along with medication to reduce the production of growth hormone. Radiation therapy may also be used to reduce tumor size and slow its growth. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended to help reduce the symptoms of acromegaly.