Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that results from too much growth hormone (GH) in the body. The pituitary, a small gland in the brain, makes GH. In acromegaly, the pituitary produces excessive amounts of GH. Usually the excess GH comes from benign, or noncancerous, tumors on the pituitary. These benign tumors are called adenomas.
Overgrowth of bone and cartilage often leads to arthritis. When tissue thickens, it may trap nerves, causing carpal tunnel syndrome, which results in numbness and weakness of the hands. Body organs, including the heart, may enlarge.
Other symptoms of acromegaly include
•joint aches
•thick, coarse, oily skin
•skin tags
•enlarged lips, nose, and tongue
•deepening of the voice due to enlarged sinuses and vocal cords
•sleep apnea—breaks in breathing during sleep due to obstruction of the airway
•excessive sweating and skin odor
•fatigue and weakness
•headaches
•impaired vision
•abnormalities of the menstrual cycle and sometimes breast discharge in women
•erectile dysfunction in men
•decreased libido
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