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Risk factors for glucose intolerance in active acromegaly
A Kreze1, E Kreze-Spirova, M Mikulecky
1Institute of Endocrinology, SK-03491 Lubochna, Slovak Republic.
Summary
Active acromegaly significantly increases the risk of diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance. Family history of diabetes, female gender, and arterial hypertension are identified as key risk factors for developing glucose intolerance in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Acromegaly, a condition caused by excess growth hormone, is associated with metabolic disturbances.
- Glucose intolerance is a known complication, but its prevalence and specific risk factors in active, untreated acromegaly require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of glucose intolerance in active, untreated acromegaly.
- To identify risk factors associated with the development of glucose intolerance in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 43 patients with active, untreated acromegaly.
- Assessment of diabetes mellitus, impaired glucose tolerance, and impaired fasting glycemia.
- Analysis of ten suspected risk factors using chi-square tests.
Main Results:
- 19% of patients had diabetes mellitus, and 5% had impaired glucose tolerance.
- Diabetes frequency was 4.5 times higher than in the general Slovak population.
- Family history of diabetes and arterial hypertension were significant promoting factors for glucose intolerance.
Conclusions:
- Active, untreated acromegaly is linked to a higher prevalence of glucose intolerance.
- Family history of diabetes, arterial hypertension, and female gender are significant risk factors.
- This study defines confidence intervals for glucose intolerance categories, aiding future research comparisons.