About Acromegaly
Acromegaly is an acquired dysmorphic syndrome which is the result of chronic growth hormone (GH) hypersecretion. Though described previously by others, the name "acromegaly" was established by Pierre Marie in 1886. The name reflects a key feature of acromegaly: the enlargement of the face, hands, and feet.3 Learn more about the epidemiology and pathophysiology of acromegaly.
History of pituitary adenoma research
Subsequent to Marie's identification, the presence of an enlarged pituitary or pituitary adenoma in acromegaly was noted by several investigators. In 1892 Massalongo proposed a causal relationship between a pituitary adenoma and acromegaly. In 1909 Cushing demonstrated that acromegaly improves after partial removal of the adenoma and confirmed the pituitary source of the disease. Cushing hypothesized that overproduction of a growth-promoting substance by the pituitary was the cause of many of the symptoms of acromegaly.4 Read more about the symptoms and diagnosis of acromegaly.
Pituitary adenoma and growth factors
The pituitary releases GH, which triggers the production of insulin-like growth factor-1. Both:
- Are responsible for the growth of bones and skeletal muscles
- Are involved in the metabolism of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates
- Play a part in cell proliferation
Learn about treatment options-including Somatuline® Depot (lanreotide) Injection-for acromegaly.
