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Acromegaly – Definition and Diagnosis

Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder where body tissues continue to grow bigger due to excess secretion of growth hormone by pituitary gland. Diagnosis of acromegaly is difficult in the initial stages as changes occur very slowly.

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Definition and Diagnosis of Acromegaly

New York (USA), June 21, 2013

What is Acromegaly?

Definition of Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder where body tissues continue to grow bigger due to excess secretion of growth hormone by pituitary gland. Excess hormone leads to thickening of skin, bone enlargement, swelling, and growth of tissue specifically on your hands, face, and feet. This rare disorder is normally due to presence of a non-cancerous tumor. Such overgrowth often leads to large hands and feet and facial disfigurement. However, all changes occur slowly and over a very long period.

Acromegaly normally occurs in adulthood around middle age. Sometimes it also occurs in growing children. Such excess growth hormone eventually leads to an abnormal increase in bone growth and height. This condition is termed ‘gigantism’.

Diagnosis of Acromegaly

Diagnosis of acromegaly is difficult in the initial stages as changes occur very slowly. Nonetheless, physical examination and your medical history can provide clues to acromegaly. Complete and confirmed diagnosis is possible only through blood tests. Measurement of IGF-I is the most reliable diagnostic test for acromegaly. Other tests include CT and MRI scans of pituitary gland to determine size and location of adenoma.

It is difficult to identify acromegaly as all changes occur very gradually. Nonetheless, it is important to treat acromegaly. It could lead to serious ailments and sometimes even premature death. A variety of treatment options are available that can bring in remarkable change in symptoms and your overall condition.

Acromegaly – Causes and Evaluation
Causes and Evaluation of Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Complications and Risk Factors
Complications and Risk Factors for Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures for Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Treatments and Medications
Treatments and Medications for Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Clinical Trials and Research Studies
Clinical Trials and Research Studies on Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies
Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies for Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Prevention and Coping
Prevention and Coping with Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help for Acromegaly

Acromegaly – Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies
Acromegaly – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies

Written By:
Dr. Marilyn Thompson