Acromegaly
Acromegaly
Treatment and Care Options
Treatment for Acromegaly focuses on managing the excess growth hormone and treating symptoms. The primary goal is to control the pituitary gland and reduce the excess hormone levels in the blood. Treatment typically involves:
- Medications: Drugs may be prescribed to reduce the pituitary gland's output of growth hormone.
- Surgery: Transsphenoidal surgery is often used to remove or shrink the pituitary tumor.
- Radiation Therapy: This may be used in combination with surgery or medication if the tumor remains.
In addition to medical management, regular monitoring of blood levels and follow-up with an endocrinologist are essential. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and exercising, can help manage associated conditions like joint pain or cardiovascular risks.
What Causes this Condition?
Acromegaly occurs when the body produces too much growth hormone (GH) after the plates of growth on the bones have already closed, usually in adulthood. The most common cause is a pituitary adenoma, which is a non-cancerous tumor that develops in the pituitary gland.
- Pituitary Adenoma: A tumor in the pituitary gland that overproduces growth hormone.
- Other Pituitary Issues: Less commonly, other problems with the pituitary gland can lead to excess GH.