Acromegaly is a rare but serious health condition that causes excessive growth in bones and other soft tissues, such as the hands, feet, and face. This happens due to an excessive production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland, located in the brain.
Read more to understand how this condition affects an individual. Additionally, learn about its symptoms, complications, and available medical treatments.
What Is Acromegaly?
Acromegaly meaning comes from the two Greek words: “megas” = large and “akron” = extremity. It refers to the enlargement of the hands, feet, and facial features.
Clinically, acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that occurs when the pituitary gland produces excessive growth hormone (GH), typically due to a tumour of the pituitary gland. GH then triggers overproduction of another hormone called IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which is responsible for the abnormal growth of soft tissues and bones in this condition.
Acromegaly typically occurs after the growth plates have fused in adults, distinguishing it from gigantism, which typically occurs before the growth plates are fused, as per StatPearls. It is usually diagnosed in men around the age of 40 and in women around 45.
Key Symptoms and Complications of Acromegaly Disease
Acromegaly symptoms can change the physical appearance. The changes may start slowly and remain unnoticed for long periods. The most noticeable physical signs and symptoms are:
- Enlarged hands and feet (you may outgrow your shoes and gloves)
- Big nose
- Oddly broad jaw
- Enlarged tongue
- Irregular menstrual cycles in women or erectile dysfunction in men
Acromegaly can affect your health and metabolism, further causing these complications:
- Joint pain and swelling
- Deeper voice
- Fatigue and muscle weakness
- Excessive sweating and body odour
- Headaches and vision problems
- Thickening of skin
- Obstructed breathing, snoring
If the acromegaly growth hormone surge is not treated, it can lead to other hormonal health issues, such as:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Arthritis
- Colon polyps
How Is Acromegaly Diagnosed?
The symptoms of acromegaly typically appear late in life, which can delay diagnosis. If you suspect unusual growth, your healthcare provider may recommend the following tests to detect and define acromegaly’s health markers:
Blood Tests
- Elevated IGF-1 is a strong indicator of acromegaly.
- The growth hormone levels should usually decrease after drinking a glucose drink, but remain elevated in the case of acromegaly.
Imaging Tests
- MRI scans can be performed to detect the tumours in the pituitary gland. X-ray tests would be required to assess bone health.
Acromegaly Medical Treatment Options
There are many treatment options for acromegaly. The doctor will proceed with the right treatment after considering your symptoms. These treatment options are:
Surgery
- This is often the first line of treatment.
- Surgeons remove the pituitary tumour through the nose or upper mouth.
- It can potentially cure acromegaly disease if the entire tumour is removed.
Medications
- Octreotide, lanreotide, etc., to block GH release.
- GH receptor antagonists to block GH from acting in the body.
- Other drugs to lower GH in some patients.
Radiation Therapy
- This is useful after a failed surgery and when medicines are not fully effective.
- It can help reduce GH levels over the years (roughly 5 to 15 years, reports NCBI).
The most concerning question that remains is, “Can acromegaly be cured?” The answer is yes. In many cases, the tumour is very small and can be easily removed with surgery. Post surgery, the person might be put on medication to manage hormone levels. Read the next section for more information on after-treatment care.
Acromegaly Therapy and Long-Term Care
Along with the medical treatments, those with treated acromegaly disease require ongoing therapy to manage symptoms and minimise complications. This includes:
- Regular endocrine check-ups (every 6–12 months)
- Heart and diabetic health monitoring
- Sleep monitoring to check for sleep apnea
- Joint and bone health assessment for arthritis-like symptoms
Read More: Insulin Resistance Meaning: Its Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
To Sum Up
Acromegaly is caused by overproduction of growth hormone by the pituitary gland. This disease may be rare, but it can be tricky, as it often goes unnoticed for years. It usually develops later in life, in the 40s. The key symptoms are prominently odd growth of hands, jaw, nose, and deep voice. Other symptoms include headaches, joint pain, or fatigue.
It is essential to seek medical advice and avoid hormonal and physical complications. With surgery, medication, and radiation therapy, it can be managed effectively, allowing individuals to lead healthy lives.
