Gigantism
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.