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Acromegaly and the cardiovascular system

Gaetano Lombardi1, Mariano Galdiero, Renata S Auriemma

  • 1Department of Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology and Oncology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy. gaelomba@unina.it

Neuroendocrinology
|October 19, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Acromegaly causes heart problems like cardiomyopathy due to excess growth hormone. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve heart function and reduce risks.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Acromegaly, caused by excess growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), leads to significant cardiovascular risks.
  • The condition involves a specific cardiomyopathy, impacting heart function from early stages.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the cardiovascular manifestations of acromegaly.
  • To highlight the impact of GH/IGF-I excess on cardiac structure and function.
  • To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and cardiac evaluation in acromegaly management.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on acromegaly and its cardiovascular complications.
  • Analysis of the pathophysiological mechanisms linking GH/IGF-I excess to cardiac changes.
  • Discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic implications.

Main Results:

  • Acromegaly presents with a hyperkinetic syndrome (high heart rate, increased cardiac output) early on.
  • Untreated or poorly treated acromegaly can lead to concentric biventricular hypertrophy, diastolic dysfunction, and heart failure.
  • Rhythm disturbances, valve dysfunction, and worsening cardiomyopathy are common, especially with comorbidities like diabetes and hypertension.

Conclusions:

  • Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in acromegaly.
  • Controlling GH/IGF-I levels through surgery or pharmacotherapy can improve cardiac mass and function.
  • Early diagnosis and comprehensive cardiac assessment are crucial for managing acromegaly patients.

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