Gigantism

Gigantism is a very rare condition that happens when a child or adolescent has high levels of

growth hormone

 in their body, which causes them to grow very tall. Growth hormone is normally secreted by the

pituitary gland

, but a tumor on the pituitary can produce excess growth hormone in gigantism. Gigantism is treatable, but early diagnosis is crucial to prevent excessive height and other complications.
Diagnostic tests, including hormone levels and imaging studies, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Symptoms

Rapid increase in height

common

Recent unexplained weight gain

common

Excessive sweating

common

Absence of period

common

Enlarged hands and feet

common

Enlarged facial features

common

Headache

  • Lasting 4 weeks or more

  • Recurrent

  • Behind the eyes

  • Steady

Breast leaking milk

Blurred vision

Risk factors

Pituitary adenoma

Treatment
<b>Surgery</b> is the most common treatment option for gigantism. The goal is to remove or reduce the size of the pituitary tumor. Since the pituitary tumors that cause gigantism are often large, children with gigantism may need multiple surgeries to remove the tumor and effectively regulate GH levels. <b>Radiation therapy</b> can help lower growth hormone levels when surgery isn’t effective in doing so. <b>Medications</b> are available and effective in treating acromegaly (excess GH in adults) but the effects of these drugs on children haven’t been adequately studied.
Recommended specialist

If you have Gigantism, then a visit to a pediatric endocrinologist is recommended.

Contact a

Pediatric endocrinologist

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