Acromegaly is a disease caused by a pituitary tumor (adenoma) that secretes too much growth hormone (GH). This overproduction of GH results in overgrowth of various tissues and many other metabolic problems. The high GH levels in turn stimulate the liver to make excessive amounts of another protein called insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). High levels of GH and IGF-1 can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and sleep apnea, heart failure, among other things. Because of the serious changes resulting from GH excess, treatment is essential. Untreated acromegaly is a serious condition that can cause dramatic bone and soft tissue changes and serious cardiovascular problems. If the GH producing tumor develops before bone growth is completed in adolescence, gigantism is the result.
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