Excess Growth Hormone

Excess growth hormone, also known as hyperpituitarism or acromegaly, is a rare medical condition that occurs when the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone (GH). GH is a hormone that regulates growth and development in children and adolescents, but excessive production can lead to various health problems.

Causes of Excess Growth Hormone

The most common cause of excess growth hormone is a non-cancerous tumor on the pituitary gland, known as a pituitary adenoma. This tumor can produce excess GH, leading to an overproduction of the hormone. Other causes of excess growth hormone include:

• Genetic disorders, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)
• Carcinoid tumors, which are rare tumors that can produce GH
• McCune-Albright syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the bones, skin, and endocrine system

Symptoms of Excess Growth Hormone

The symptoms of excess growth hormone can vary depending on the age of onset and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Enlargement of hands and feet
• Coarsening of facial features, such as a prominent jaw and nose
• Joint pain and limited mobility
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sleep apnea
• Headaches
• Excessive sweating
• Body odor

Diagnosis of Excess Growth Hormone

Diagnosing excess growth hormone typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. These may include:

• Blood tests to measure GH levels
• Imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to visualize the pituitary gland and detect any tumors
• Glucose tolerance test to assess GH suppression

Treatment of Excess Growth Hormone

Treatment for excess growth hormone depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Options may include:

• Surgery to remove pituitary tumors
• Medications, such as somatostatin analogs or dopamine agonists, to reduce GH production
• Radiation therapy to shrink tumors
• Hormone replacement therapy to manage hormone deficiencies

Complications of Excess Growth Hormone

If left untreated, excess growth hormone can lead to various complications, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Osteoarthritis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sleep apnea
• Increased risk of certain cancers, such as colon or thyroid cancer

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent long-term complications associated with excess growth hormone.