Pituitary gigantism
Pituitary Gigantism
Pituitary gigantism (pronunciation: pi-TOO-i-tair-ee jy-GAN-tiz-uhm) is a rare medical condition that results from an excess of growth hormone during childhood, before the bone growth plates have closed. This causes children to grow in height significantly above average. It is most often caused by a pituitary adenoma, a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland.
Etymology
The term "Pituitary gigantism" is derived from the Latin word 'gigas', meaning 'giant', and the Greek word 'pituita', meaning 'phlegm'. The pituitary gland was once thought to produce phlegm, hence its name.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pituitary gigantism can include rapid growth, joint pain, and certain facial features such as a prominent forehead and jaw. Other symptoms can include thickened skin, excessive sweating, and delayed puberty.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pituitary gigantism is usually made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. These tests may include blood tests to measure levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and imaging tests such as MRI to identify any pituitary adenomas.
Treatment
Treatment for pituitary gigantism usually involves surgery to remove the pituitary adenoma, if present. Medications may also be used to reduce the production of growth hormone. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used if surgery and medications are not effective.
Related Terms
- Acromegaly: A condition similar to pituitary gigantism, but occurs in adults after the bone growth plates have closed.
- Growth Hormone: A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration.
- Pituitary adenoma: A noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland, often the cause of pituitary gigantism.
- Pituitary gland: A small gland at the base of the brain that produces a variety of hormones, including growth hormone.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pituitary gigantism
- Wikipedia's article - Pituitary gigantism
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