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Oro-dental pathologies in acromegaly
Ilonka Kreitschmann-Andermahr1, Johannes Kohlmann2, Bernadette Kleist3
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany. ilonka.kreitschmann@uk-essen.de.
Endocrine
|March 10, 2018
Summary
Acromegaly frequently causes oro-dental pathologies (ODP), affecting four out of five patients. Early diagnosis and treatment of these dental issues are crucial for improving quality of life in acromegaly patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oral Medicine
- Oncology
Background:
- Acromegaly, a condition caused by excess growth hormone, is associated with characteristic oro-dental pathologies (ODP).
- The prevalence and impact of ODP in acromegaly patients require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the occurrence of ODP and oro-dental treatments in acromegaly patients.
- To analyze the relationship between ODP, diagnostic delay, tumor histology, and quality of life (QoL).
Main Methods:
- A retrospective survey study was conducted on patients with growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas.
- Questionnaires assessed dental symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and QoL using the SF-36 Health Survey.
Main Results:
- 80.7% of patients experienced ODP, with tongue enlargement and spaced teeth being most common.
- Early diagnosis (within 2 years) was linked to significantly fewer ODP.
- Patients with ODP reported significantly lower physical QoL.
Conclusions:
- Oro-dental pathologies are highly prevalent in acromegaly patients.
- Early identification and management of ODP are essential for this patient population.
- ODP significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals with acromegaly.
