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Pediatric Acromegaly (Gigantism)
Acromegaly is a condition that occurs when the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone.
What is Pediatric Acromegaly (Gigantism)?
Acromegaly, also known as growth hormone excess (gigantism), is a rare condition. It happens when the pituitary gland (tiny organ at the base of the brain) produces too much growth hormone and releases it into the bloodstream.
In most cases, the condition affects adults, however, it can happen in children. Since children are still growing, excess growth hormone can cause their skeleton to grow very rapidly, leading to a condition called gigantism — or unusually large size.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Acromegaly (Gigantism)?
- Early voice changes in boys
- Enlarged facial features
- Enlarged hands and feet
- Enlarged organs (heart, liver, kidneys, etc.)
- Enlarged tongue
- Enlarged vocal cords
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Large chest size (barrel chest)
- Oily or thick skin
- Sinus problems and snoring
- Skin tags (short, narrow flap of skin tissue)
- Vision problems
What are the causes of Pediatric Acromegaly (Gigantism)?
The most common cause of acromegaly is a pituitary gland tumor. Most pituitary gland tumors are benign (noncancerous).
Pediatric Acromegaly (Gigantism) Doctors and Providers
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Perrin White, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Soumya Adhikari, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Abha Choudhary, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Melissa Ham, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Muniza Mogri, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Sudha Mootha, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Nivedita Patni, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist -
Amanda Shaw, MD Pediatric Endocrinologist