Causes of Acromegaly

Growth Factor, Growth Hormone, and Acromegaly

Acromegaly is caused by high levels of growth hormone in the bloodstream. Typically, acromegaly occurs after the normal growth of the skeleton and other organs of the body is complete. The extra growth hormone also stimulates the liver to produce higher-than-normal amounts of a substance called insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Together, these two chemicals in the bloodstream cause the symptoms of acromegaly.

What causes high levels of growth hormone?

In the vast majority (95%) of cases of acromegaly, the high levels of growth hormone are caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located just below the brain. It controls the production and release of growth hormone and several other hormones. High levels of growth hormone can also be caused by the tumor itself producing excess growth hormone.

Long-term effects of acromegaly

Even though these tumors are generally not cancerous, they cause harm by causing the symptoms of acromegaly. If left untreated, the symptoms may reduce the life expectancy of a person with acromegaly by up to 10 years.

Acromegaly Symptoms

Typically, acromegaly causes abnormal growth of bones in the body, especially those in the hands and the face. Read about the symptoms of acromegaly.

Acromegaly Diagnosis

Healthcare professionals diagnose acromegaly based on symptoms they can see and on tests to show them what they can't see. Read about the diagnosis of acromegaly.

Acromegaly Treatment Options

Because it has been studied for so long, acromegaly is well understood and can be treated effectively using surgery, medication, and radiation. Read about the treatment options for acromegaly.