Articular manifestations of acromegaly

Forty-five patients with acromegaly or gigantism were reviewed for musculoskeletal abnormalities. Abnormalities of peripheral joints occurred in 74% of the patients and spinal involvement in 47%, leading to significant morbidity. Joint abnormalities most frequently affected the large joints (hips, knees and shoulders) but the wrist and hand were also involved. The radiological features of acromegalic arthropathy are described, including vertical widening of the hip joint, enthesopathy and osteophytosis. A favourable response to treatment is associated with a less severe arthropathy and a good functional outcome.