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Acromegaly is an uncommon hormonal disease in adults where the body produces abnormally high levels of growth hormone (GH) and increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).1 Most cases are caused by a noncancerous or benign tumour (adenoma) in the pituitary gland inside the brain where GH is produced.1
Growth hormone not only makes you grow taller, it also tells your muscles and organs to grow and affects how your body uses energy such as fat, protein and carbohydrates.2
The balance of growth hormone in your body is controlled by levels of other hormones in your blood and fluctuates throughout the day. Growth hormone can also be affected by stress, exercise, nutrition and sleep.2
Growth hormone and IGF-1 are responsible for controlling the physical growth of the body. When released in excess by the pituitary gland, this results in abnormal bone growth, leading to an increase in the size of the hands, feet, and face, while other parts of the body remain unaffected.
REFERENCES:
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NHS England. Acromegaly. Available at:https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acromegaly/. Last Accessed: November 2024
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VIVO pathophysiology. Growth hormone (somatotropin). Available at:https://vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/endocrine/hypopit/gh.html Last Accessed: November 2024
