Alternative Names & Classifications:
Gigantism (CLINICAL), Pituitary Gigantism (CLINICAL)
Description
Gigantism occurs when a functioning pituitary adenoma secretes massive amounts of growth hormone during childhood, prior to the closure of the epiphyseal growth plates in the bones. Because the bones can still grow in length, the child experiences rapid, extraordinary vertical growth. If left untreated, individuals can reach exceptionally tall heights and suffer severe cardiovascular and joint complications.