Related Experiment Videos
Pituitary gigantism causing diabetic ketoacidosis
Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism : JPEM
|December 30, 1999
Summary
Growth hormone excess in children is rare. This case highlights a pituitary adenoma causing acromegaly and diabetes in a 13-year-old boy, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Growth hormone excess (acromegaly) and its association with glucose intolerance and diabetes mellitus are well-documented in adults.
- However, these conditions are significantly less common in the pediatric age group.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old boy presented with tall stature attributed to a large growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma.
- His random growth hormone levels were markedly elevated (630 mIU/l) and did not suppress during an oral glucose tolerance test.
Findings:
- Following surgical debulking of the pituitary tumor, the patient developed diabetic ketoacidosis necessitating insulin therapy.
- Subsequent surgical intervention led to a normalization of glucose metabolism.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rarity and clinical presentation of pediatric acromegaly due to pituitary adenomas.
- It highlights the potential for significant metabolic disturbances, including diabetes, and the importance of multidisciplinary management.
- Testosterone therapy was initiated to control height progression.