The main cause of the disease is excessive release of somatropin from pituitary adenoma. This tumor is most often benign, but it can put pressure on surrounding tissues and organs. Why adenoma develops is not always clear, but heredity and genetic mutations may play a role in its occurrence.

The disease increases the size of the bones. This is one of the most characteristic signs of acromegaly. Jaws, palms, feet and skull, becoming large. There is an increase in the internal organs – heart, liver and kidneys. There may also be thickening of the vocal folds, resulting in coarsening of the voice. A pituitary adenoma can put pressure on surrounding tissues, causing headaches and visual disturbances.

Diagnosis at MDI Clinic

The specialist conducts a detailed examination of the patient and gathers information about the medical history, including symptoms and their duration. Special attention is paid to the physical examination for signs of the disease, such as enlarged skull, nose, lips, tongue, and enlarged hands and feet.

The hormone levels are then measured. It is a key biochemical test for diagnosis. The most accurate time to measure is in the morning, as Somatotropin levels are usually highest at this time. If hormone levels are elevated, it may indicate the presence of a disease.

Glucosaminography may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. The patient is asked to drink glucose and then the hormone levels are measured over several hours. Normally, growth hormone should rise after glucose ingestion, but this does not occur in acromegaly patients.

Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography may also be performed to visualize the tumor and determine its location and size.