| Topic: | endocrine & metabolic diseases (en) |
| Title: | Acromegaly. |
| Author: | n/a |
| Source: | Chevy Chase, MD: Hormone Foundation. 2007. 1 p. |
| Availability: | Available from Hormone Foundation. 8401 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 900, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. Phone: 1-800-467-6663. Email: hormone@endo-society.org. Website: www.hormone.org. Price: Available free of charge on website. |
| Abstract: | This brief fact sheet explains acromegaly, a rare condition caused by too much growth hormone (GH) in the blood. GH is released by the pituitary gland, and the blood carries it to other parts of the body, such as bone and muscle. The fact sheet answers common questions about acromegaly, including its causes, the signs and symptoms of the condition, diagnostic tests that confirm the diagnosis of acromegaly, and treatment options. Acromegaly is caused by a noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland that produces too much GH and raises the level of GH in the blood. Too much GH raises the level of a hormone called insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Diagnostic tests include blood tests, oral glucose tolerance tests, and imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment can include surgery, pituitary irradiation, medication, or a combination of these options. Readers are referred to the Hormone Foundation’s website at www.hormone.org for more information. The fact sheet is also available in Spanish. 1 figure. 4 references. |
| Format: | Brochure/Pamphlet |
| Language: | English. |
| Major Keywords: | Endocrine Diseases and Disorders. Acromegaly. Symptoms. Metabolism. Pituitary Glands. Somatotropin. |
| Minor Keywords: | Tumor. Risk Factors. Diagnosis. Diagnostic Tests. Patient Care Management. Drug Therapy. Radiation Therapy. Hormones. |
| Publication Number: | ENBR10009 |
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