Last updated on:

02 May 2025 | 02:50 PM (IST)

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Acromegaly

Definition

Acromegaly is a disorder that causes enlargement of hands and feet due to excessive presence of growth hormones

Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms are,

1. Doughy-feeling skin over the face and extremities

2. Thick and hard nails

3. Deepening of creases on the forehead and nasolabial folds

4. Noticeably large pores

5. Thick and edematous eyelids

6. Enlargement of the lower lip and nose (the nose takes on a triangular configuration)

7. Wide spacing of the teeth and prognathism

8. Cutis verticis gyrata (ie, furrows resembling gyri of the scalp)

9. Small sessile and pedunculated fibromas (ie, skin tags)

10. Hypertrichosis

11. Oily skin (acne is not common)

12. Hyperpigmentation (40% of patients)

Complications and When Should You See a Doctor

Complications may include,

1. Severe headache

2. Arthritis and carpel tunnel syndrome

3. Enlarged heart

4. Hypertension

5. Diabetes mellitus

6. Heart failure

7. Kidney Failure

Investigations

1.You may be recommended to get the levels of the following hormones/substances checked,

a) Oral glucose level

b) GH levels

c) IGF-1 levels

2.Imaging studies such as,

a) MRI scan

b) CT scan

c) Radiography

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Disclaimer

Tata 1mg's sole intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is expert-reviewed, accurate and trustworthy. However, the information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. This may not cover all possible side effects, drug interactions or warnings or alerts. Please consult your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.