Acromegaly
Acromegaly is a rare condition in which the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone, most often because of a benign tumour on the gland. The excess hormone causes gradual enlargement of the hands, feet, jaw, and facial features. Because the changes develop slowly, acromegaly is frequently diagnosed years after it begins, sometimes first noticed through ring sizes, shoe width, or shifting facial proportions. It can occur in adults anywhere in the world.
Key points
- Growth hormone excess usually stems from a benign pituitary tumour, and changes develop so gradually that diagnosis often comes years later.
- The condition, if left untreated, raises long-term risks including diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, alongside joint pain and fatigue.
- Removing the pituitary tumour surgically is typically the first step, with medication added if hormone levels remain high afterwards.
Recognising and managing acromegaly
Beyond the physical changes, acromegaly often brings joint pain, fatigue, excessive sweating, and headaches. Untreated, it raises the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems, so early identification matters.
Treatment typically aims to reduce growth hormone levels. Surgery to remove the pituitary tumour is usually the first approach. Where surgery cannot fully normalise hormone levels, medicines become part of ongoing care. Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist that can suppress growth hormone secretion in some people with acromegaly, and sits within the broader neurology category of treatments used for pituitary and brain-related conditions. Persistent headaches, rapid vision changes, or sudden worsening of symptoms warrant prompt medical review.