Reports in Endocrine Disorders: Open Access

Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a disorder that results from excess growth hormone (GH) after the growth plates have closed. This is typically due to the pituitary gland producing too much growth hormone, production is due to a benign tumor, known as a pituitary adenoma.

Treatment options include surgery to remove the tumor, medications, and radiation therapy. Surgery is usually the preferred treatment and is most effective when the tumor is smaller. In those in whom surgery is not effective, medications of the somatostatin analogue or GH receptor antagonist type may be used. The effects of radiation therapy are more gradual than that of surgery or medication