Exploring Brain Parenchymal Changes in Acromegaly: Focus on White Matter Hyperintensities

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Radiology

Background:

• Acromegaly, a rare chronic condition, results from excessive growth hormone secretion.
• Hormonal imbalances in acromegaly can lead to cerebral changes, even with controlled hormone levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in acromegaly patients.
• To identify potential contributing factors to WMH development in acromegaly.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 37 acromegaly patients undergoing gadolinium-enhanced brain MRI.
• Assessment of WMHs, cardiovascular comorbidities, migraine, inflammatory markers (interleukin-33), and hand skin perfusion.

Main Results:

• WMHs were detected in 64.9% of patients, with a higher burden in older individuals and those with longer disease duration.
• Hypertension was significantly associated with a higher WMH burden (p=0.05).
• No significant association was found between WMHs and migraine (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

• Aging, disease duration, and hypertension are key factors influencing WMH development in acromegaly.
• Early management of cardiovascular comorbidities and regular radiological follow-up are suggested for acromegaly patients.
• Further prospective studies are needed to elucidate the role of disease activity and treatment in WMH development.