Alternative Names & Classifications:
Acromegaly (CLINICAL)
Description
Acromegaly is an insidious and progressive disease that occurs when the pituitary gland secretes excessive amounts of growth hormone (GH) well after the epiphyseal growth plates have fused. In over 95% of cases, it is caused by a benign pituitary adenoma. Because the bones can no longer grow in length, the excess hormone causes bones, cartilage, and soft tissues to thicken and enlarge over decades.