People with acromegaly should receive regular screenings by a doctor. This will include imaging tests, including CT scans and MRIs. Patients with acromegaly usually have the condition for years before it is diagnosed. However, scan results usually reveal a tumor. If the tumor is present, the patient must undergo surgery or chemotherapy.
Treatment of acromegaly
Acromegaly is a rare disorder due to excess production of growth hormone (GH) or insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). It is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, but many patients can be successfully treated. Treatment modalities are available in hormone replacement therapy and surgery.
During treatment, the patient should undergo regular monitoring by their doctor. This helps to ensure that their pituitary gland is functioning correctly and their symptoms improve. In some cases, titration of medications may be necessary to achieve optimal control of hormone levels. Moreover, a patient may require specialized tests like an MRI to evaluate the extent of bone damage.
Treatment of acromegaly aims to reduce tumor size and restore normal growth hormone levels. It also aims to relieve pressure on the surrounding tissues and normalize pituitary function. Patients can also undergo targeted therapy for a variety of comorbidities. In addition, some doctors may combine multiple treatments to ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate treatment.
Current acromegaly management algorithms follow a trial-and-error approach and include multiple treatment approaches. Although transsphenoidal surgery is still the first-line treatment for acromegaly, it is often not feasible or ineffective in all cases. In these cases, long-acting somatostatin analogs may be recommended.
Diagnosis of acromegaly
Acromegaly is a condition marked by progressive somatic disfigurement characterized by the overproduction of growth hormone (GH). It is a relatively rare affliction and usually affects the face, extremities, and soft tissue. Patients with this condition usually experience an increased size of the face, prominent cheekbones, thick lips, and marked facial lines. It can also affect other organs in rare cases.
Acromegalic patients may have symptoms for several years. For example, patients may develop new skin tags on their backs or snore more than usual. They may also have recently developed diabetes or hypertension. If the adenoma is progressive, patients may experience headaches and visual field disturbances. These symptoms can progress to bitemporal hemianopsia and ultimately to blindness.
Acromegalic patients should undergo biochemical tests to confirm their diagnosis. These tests measure levels of GH and insulin-like growth factor-1. These tests are often performed with a glucose tolerance test to assess blood glucose levels. The blood glucose level should be elevated in patients with acromegaly.
Diagnosis of acromegaly is critical because acromegaly’s presence can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life. Failure to diagnose the condition early can result in disastrous consequences for the patient.
Support groups for people with acromegaly
Support groups for people with acromegaly can help patients cope with the challenges of living with the condition. These groups provide social support and information about local events. Members can also exchange ideas and experiences with others. Community, an organization for people with acromegaly, offers a list of support groups and answers to frequently asked questions.
There are many challenges faced by people with acromegaly, particularly in finding a doctor who understands the condition. In addition, acromegaly is a rare condition that can take years to get a proper diagnosis. Thankfully, the awareness of the condition has increased over time, and there are now support groups for people with the condition.
Acromegaly is caused by an overactive pituitary gland, which secretes excess growth hormone and affects many body tissues. It can lead to various complications, including diabetes and menstrual cycle irregularities. In addition, people with acromegaly can experience headaches and vision problems.
Although it is not curable, treatment for acromegaly can significantly increase the chances of stabilizing the condition. However, sometimes, the condition will reappear, so it is essential to follow the treatment plan.
