Related Experiment Videos
[Pathological changes in face and skull in acromegaly].
A Künzler1, M Farmand, B De Giacomi
1Universitätsspital Zürich.
Swiss Dent
|January 1, 1992
Summary
This study found significant lower jaw elongation in patients with growth hormone-producing pituitary adenomas, identified via skull X-rays. New clinical signs, "hanging columella" and mandibular canal changes, were also noted in acromegaly patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Radiology
- Orthodontics
Context:
- Growth hormone-producing pituitary adenomas cause acromegaly, leading to characteristic skeletal changes.
- Previous research focused on generalized skeletal changes, with less emphasis on specific craniofacial alterations.
Purpose:
- To investigate specific roentgenological changes in the viscero- and neurocranium of patients with growth hormone-producing pituitary adenomas.
- To identify statistically significant alterations in the facial skeleton and neurocranium.
- To establish a scoring system for early acromegaly detection on lateral skull radiographs.
Summary:
- 31 patients with growth hormone-producing pituitary adenomas underwent clinical and radiological assessment, compared to 25 healthy controls.
- Statistically significant elongation was observed in the lower jaw, primarily due to changes in the chin prominence and condyle.
- Neurocranial findings were categorized, and a scoring system was developed for early acromegaly detection.
- Two novel clinical symptoms, "hanging columella" and altered mandibular canal diameter, were identified.
Impact:
- The study provides a new scoring system for early acromegaly diagnosis using lateral skull radiographs.
- Identifies specific lower jaw and neurocranial changes indicative of the condition.
- Introduces two previously undocumented clinical signs associated with acromegaly, aiding in clinical recognition.