Gigantism images

Definition

Gigantism is a rare condition that causes abnormal growth in children. This change is most notable in terms of height, but girth is affected as well. It occurs when your child’s pituitary gland makes too much growth hormone, which is also known as somatotropin.

Causes

Pituitary tumor

sexual development

growth

McCune-Albright syndrome causes abnormal growth in bone tissue, patches of light-brown skin, and gland abnormalities.

Neurofibromatosis is an inherited disorder that causes tumors in the nervous system.

Signs and symptoms

very large hands and feet

coarse facial features

thick toes and fingers

a prominent jaw and forehead

severe or recurrent headaches

delayed puberty in both boys and girls

deafness

Diagnostic

Blood tests

Oral glucose tolerance test

MRI scan

Treatment

Surgery

Removing the tumor is the preferred treatment for gigantism if it’s the underlying cause.

Medication

octreotide drug

Bromocriptine and cabergoline are drugs that can be used to lower growth hormone levels.

daily shots of pegvisomant might be used as well.

Gamma life Radiosurgery

Radiation

References

Kellerman RD, et al. Endocrine and metabolic disorders. In: Conn's Current Therapy 2021. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Dec. 26, 2020.

Acromegaly and gigantism. Mayo Clinic; 2019.