[Acromegaly and sleep apnoea syndrome--case report]

We studied 65-year old, obese man suspected of obstructive sleep apnoea. He gave a history of loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. We confirmed sleep apnoea syndrome during limited polysomnography with Polymesam (RDI--45/h, ODI--47/h). Patient had mainly obstructive episodes, however central and mixed apnoeas constituted about 1/3 of all episodes. During hospitalization we observed exacerbation of coronary artery disease and diagnosed diabetes. Patient's coarsened facial features, macroglossia and large hands led us to suspect acromegaly. Brain MR study revealed small pituitary adenoma. Plasma GH and IGF-1 concentrations were increased. Active acromegaly was diagnosed and was proposed a surgical treatment but he refused. Symptoms of sleep apnoea relieved after CPAP treatment. After one year patient's condition remained stable.