Hyperpituitarism is primarily known as acromegaly when it occurs after the epiphyseal plates have fused in adulthood, and gigantism when it occurs before epiphyseal plate closure in childhood or adolescence. It refers to the overactivity of the pituitary gland, specifically the anterior lobe.
Understanding Hyperpituitarism
Hyperpituitarism arises from excessive secretion of one or more hormones produced by the anterior pituitary gland. While various hormones can be overproduced, the most commonly associated with significant clinical syndromes is growth hormone (GH).
Conditions Resulting from Hyperpituitarism
Here's a breakdown of the conditions associated with hyperpituitarism, primarily focusing on growth hormone excess:
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Acromegaly: This condition develops when the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone after the growth plates in bones have closed. This leads to a gradual enlargement of the bones of the hands, feet, and face, as well as soft tissue swelling.
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Gigantism: This occurs when excessive growth hormone is produced before the growth plates close. The result is excessive linear growth, leading to significantly increased height.
Causes of Hyperpituitarism
The most common cause of hyperpituitarism is a benign tumor (adenoma) of the pituitary gland. These tumors secrete excess amounts of growth hormone. Less frequently, hyperpituitarism can be caused by:
- Hyperplasia of the pituitary cells
- Tumors outside the pituitary gland that produce growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), which stimulates the pituitary to produce more growth hormone.
Symptoms of Hyperpituitarism
The symptoms of hyperpituitarism depend on the specific hormone being overproduced. However, when excess growth hormone is the culprit, the following symptoms can appear:
- Enlarged hands and feet
- Coarsened facial features
- Excessive sweating
- Joint pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Headaches
- Vision problems
- Sleep apnea
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of hyperpituitarism involves hormone level testing and imaging studies such as MRI of the pituitary gland. Treatment options include:
- Surgery: Removal of the pituitary tumor.
- Medications: To block the effects of growth hormone or reduce its production.
- Radiation therapy: To shrink the tumor.
In summary, hyperpituitarism signifies an overactive pituitary gland, most notably resulting in acromegaly in adults and gigantism in children due to excessive growth hormone production.
