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Acromegaly

Enlargement of hands, feet, and facial tissues caused by excessive growth hormone secretion in adulthood.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Acromegaly?

Acromegaly is a rare disorder caused by a growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary adenoma that produces chronically elevated blood GH and IGF-1 levels. When it begins after the epiphyseal plates close (in adulthood), it causes gradual enlargement of the hands, feet, and facial tissues; if it begins before closure, it produces tall stature (gigantism).

Because changes are very slow, diagnosis is typically delayed by an average of 7-10 years and is often noticed through a change in ring or shoe size or by comparing photographs over time. Cardiomegaly, hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, and colon polyps are important complications of acromegaly.

The primary treatment is transsphenoidal surgery to remove the tumor. Radiosurgery and somatostatin analogues (octreotide, lanreotide) are used in cases where remission is not achieved.

Symptoms

Enlargement of the hands and feet (increase in ring and shoe size)
Coarsening of facial features (enlargement of forehead, jaw, and nose)
Voice deepening and widely spaced teeth
Joint pain and weakness
Excessive sweating and oily skin
Headache and visual field narrowing
Sleep apnea and snoring

Risk Factors

GH-secreting pituitary adenoma (95% of cases)
MEN1 syndrome
Family history of acromegaly or pituitary adenoma
Carney complex
Ectopic GHRH-secreting tumors (rare)
AIP gene mutation
Young age of onset (more aggressive course)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Gradual changes noticed in the hands, feet, or facial features
  • Increase in ring or shoe size
  • Unexplained joint pain and increased sweating
  • Elevated IGF-1 or abnormal GH suppression test
  • Visual field narrowing or persistent headaches

Treatment Methods

01
Transsphenoidal pituitary surgery (primary treatment)
02
Somatostatin analogues (octreotide LAR, lanreotide): GH/IGF-1 suppression
03
GH receptor antagonist (pegvisomant): IGF-1 normalization
04
Radiosurgery (gamma knife): for residual or recurrent tumor
05
Concurrent management of diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea
06
Colonoscopy: due to increased colon polyp risk

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.