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Acromegaly presenting as cutis verticis gyrata
Mohammad Al-Bedaia1, And Sultan Al-Khenaizan
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, King Fahad National Guard Hospital, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
International Journal of Dermatology
|January 24, 2008
Summary
A Saudi teenager presented with scalp skin changes, diagnosed as cutis verticis gyrata and acanthosis nigricans. High growth hormone levels suggested acromegaly, a condition causing abnormal growth.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Endocrinology
- Clinical Case Study
Background:
- Cutis verticis gyrata (CVG) is a rare scalp condition characterized by convoluted folds.
- Acathosis nigricans (AN) presents as velvety, hyperpigmented skin plaques, often associated with metabolic disorders.
- Acromegaly, caused by excess growth hormone, can manifest with distinct dermatological signs.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old male exhibited progressive, asymptomatic scalp skin folds (CVG) over four years.
- Physical examination revealed coarse facial features, broadened nasal bridge, thick lips, and widespread AN.
- Skin lesions were noted on the neck, axillae, groin, hands, and periorbital areas.
Findings:
- Clinical suspicion of acromegaly arose due to the severity and progression of dermatological findings.
- Endocrinological assessment confirmed elevated random growth hormone levels (37.3 mIU/L).
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain was arranged to investigate potential pituitary adenoma.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential dermatological manifestations of acromegaly, including CVG and AN.
- Early recognition of these skin changes can prompt timely endocrine evaluation for acromegaly.
- The case underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach integrating dermatology and endocrinology.
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