Acromegaly

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology

Background:

• Acromegaly is a rare, chronic condition caused by excess growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).
• Often resulting from pituitary adenomas, diagnosis is frequently delayed due to insidious symptoms, leading to significant complications, morbidity, and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of acromegaly pathophysiology.
• To discuss diagnostic approaches and current/future treatment modalities for acromegaly.
• To highlight advances in managing this rare endocrine disorder.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of acromegaly.
• Analysis of current evidence-based guidelines from The Endocrine Society.
• Discussion of surgical, medical, and radiotherapeutic options.

Main Results:

• Serum IGF-1 measurement is the recommended initial screening test.
• Oral glucose tolerance test with GH measurement is the gold standard diagnostic test.
• Therapeutic goals include reducing GH and IGF-1 levels, alleviating symptoms, and addressing adenoma effects.

Conclusions:

• A multidisciplinary approach, often involving combined therapies, is recommended for effective acromegaly management.
• Disease control can significantly reduce associated morbidity and mortality.
• Future pharmacological therapies hold promise for improved patient outcomes.