A review article on acromegaly

Abstract

Acromegaly is a rare, chronic, progressive condition characterized by excess growth hormone (GH) secretion and elevated
concentrations of circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). In the vast majority of cases, it is caused by pituitary adenoma.
Owing to the insidious nature of the condition, clinical diagnosis, based on signs linked to GH excess, is often postponed.
Consequently, when diagnosed with elevated morbidity and premature death, patients often have systemic complications. As an
experimental screen for patients with suspected acromegaly, serum IGF-1 assessment is recommended. The oral glucose tolerance
exam with concomitant GH assessment remains the gold standard diagnostic examination. Acromegaly treatment is aimed at
reducing the levels of GH and IGF-1, increasing the symptoms of patients and reducing any local compressive effects of pituitary
adenoma. Surgery, prescription therapies (such as dopamine agonists, somatostatin receptor agonists, and the GH receptor
pegvisomant antagonist) and radiotherapy are the medication choices for acromegaly. It is recommended to use a
multidisciplinary approach, often involving combined care modalities. Related morbidity and death can be minimized with disease
prevention. The Endocrine Society's newly released evidence-based recommendations discussed critical health concerns related to
acromegaly assessment and treatment. This analysis addresses developments in our understanding of acromegaly
pathophysiology, the identification of multiple types of the condition, and reflects on current modalities of care and possible
pharmacological treatments for acromegaly patients.