Acromegaly-Physiopathology and etiology

Acromegaly is a chronic endocrine disorder characterized by excessive growth hormone (GH) secretion. It is typically caused by a pituitary tumor that secretes GH. Understanding the precise mechanisms that lead to tumorigenesis and GH hypersecretion is important for anticipating the comorbidities induced by the disease and defining the most appropriate treatment for both the hypersecretion and the comorbidities. This chapter will thus focus on the physiology of the normal GH axis, the mechanisms of GH-secreting tumorigenesis, and how GH induces comorbidities such as hypertension, sleep apnea, and diabetes. We will not discuss the currently available treatments or their effects on comorbidities. However, clarifying the pathophysiology can lead to a better understanding of the available therapeutic options.