Acromegaly
Alternate Names : Hyperpituitarism
Acromegaly is excessive bone growth. It results when a person's
body produces too much growth hormone. The condition causes gradual
enlargement of the bones in the face, jaw, hands, feet, and skull.
What is going on in the body?
Most cases of acromegaly are caused by a pituitary tumor
that is benign, which means that it is not cancer. The tumor causes the
pituitary gland to make excess hormones. The high level of growth hormone
produces changes in many tissues and organs. Acromegaly occurs
after growth has been completed. In most cases, it begins between the
ages of 30 and 50.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
The high growth hormone levels that lead to acromegaly are
usually caused by a pituitary tumor.
No one knows what causes pituitary tumors. They are more common in
women than in men.
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