Acromegaly
Alternative names:
hyperpituitarism
Treatment:
Microsurgery to remove the pituitary tumor causing this condition corrects the abnormal growth hormone secretion in most patients. This surgery may not be available in isolated locations, so travel to a larger metropolitan area may be necessary for treatment.
Radiation of the pituitary gland is used for people who do not respond to the surgical treatment.
Treatment with the medications bromocriptine or octreotide may control growth hormone secretions in some people. These medicatons can be used as initial treatment if surgery is unavailable or a person is unable to tolerate surgery.
After treatment, periodic evaluation is necessary to ensure the normal functioning of the pituitary gland. Yearly evaluations are recommended.
Expectations (prognosis):
Pituitary surgery is successful in up to 90% of patients, depending on the size of the tumor. Radiation therapy alone is successful in up to 70% of patients at reducing symptoms for at least 5 years.
Without treatment the symptoms are progressive, and the risk of cardiovascular disease increases.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of acromegaly are present, or if symptoms do not improve with treatment.
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